WIGHTLINK staff have paid tribute to an award-winning colleague who died aged 60 - just months after saving two people from drowning.

Rob Goddard, the senior rating on the company's Lymington-Yarmouth ferry route, was remembered at a ceremony held aboard Wight Sky, where a plaque was unveiled on the ship’s rescue boat.

In February the boat was used to save a man and woman who were struggling in the sea off Yarmouth after their dinghy capsized.

Rob and fellow crewman Andy Seton pulled them from the water, wrapped them in thermal clothing and took them to the shore, where the emergency services were waiting.

They received Wightlink's Extra Mile Award for saving the two sailors and their actions were also praised by the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society.

Wight Sky's captain, Alex Procopuk, said: “Rob and Andy acted in a calm and efficient manner, leading to the successful rescue. I would like to express my gratitude to them and let them know how very proud I am to be their captain.”

Rob, of Lymington, died aged 60 of heart failure in October.

Speaking at the unveiling Wightlink's chief executive, Keith Greenfield, said: "Rob was a valued member of the Wightlink family for many years.

"His hard work and dedication to his job on the Lymington-Yarmouth route were well-known and he will be much missed by all of us."

Rob joined the Merchant Navy at the age of 17 and worked around the globe on cargo ships, icebreakers and ferries before joining Wightlink in 2009.

His widow Jackie said: "Rob enjoyed his job at Wightlink and had many good friends in the company.

"Our family were touched to see so many of his colleagues at the ceremony and are pleased his memory will live on through the plaque on the rescue boat.”

Following Rob's death a crowdfunding campaign was launched by family friend Joanne Sampey to provide a secure future for his teenage daughter.

A trust fund is being set up to help 14-year-old Isabella when she goes to university in a few years' time.

In a message left on the JustGiving page relative Terry Brown says: "Jackie, so sad to hear of Rob passing way too young. I give (my donation) with all my love and send big hugs to you both."

Carl and Terri Burnell add: "Rob was such a special and unique guy with a wicked sense of humour.

"Great fun working together and memories of our time at Wightlink will be treasured."