It is with great sadness that I have to inform the Merlin Class that former Merlin Sailor and boat builder, Bob Hoare, collapsed and died last night whilst leading in the Flying Fifteen Friday evening race, with his wife, at Parkstone Yacht Club.

Our thoughts are with his wife, Tessa, and all their family.

Indeed very sad news, Bob was a generous man, and a quiet man, with dry wit, as well as a talented sailor and boat builder. If one had to dchoose a way to go, that was it though! We'll all miss  him.

Very sad news indeed. We have happy memories of hours spent browsing in Bob's Boats, chatting with Bob and listening to his pearls of wisdom, as well as chatting in the yard at Parkstone with Bob, Tessa and the dogs. His craftsmanship has shone in Merlins & National 12s and I'm sure in many other classes. Definitely the way to go but so hard on those left in mourning.

What sad news. Condolansces to his family.
I was with him only a few weeks ago, at Setley Pond, where he loved to race his Marblehead 1M. One of the great forces in Merlin Rocket developement, A great sailor, boatbuilder and friend.

Thanks for letting us know Nick - I was sad to hear this news as Bob was always part of the Parkstone Merlin fleet when I first started crewing Merlins in my teenage years.  In addition to what the others have said before, he always took an interest in younger Merlin sailors and their progress through the fleet - he was always happy to have a word when ever he saw you or chat when you went into the shop.  Please pass on my condolances to Tessa, Claire and the rest of the family.