A TRUE Geordie who realised his Isle of Wight retirement dream, Albert 'Bert' Barlow, died at St.Marys Hospital at the age of 77.

Born in Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear, Mr Barlow was a huge Newcastle United fan and often attended the Toon Army matches when he lived in the North East.

He followed in his father's footsteps and worked in the shipping industry on the dock sides of the North East from the age of 15, until he retired at 58.

In this time he worked up the ranks and eventually became director of his own company, based on Tees Docks.

Albert dreamed of retirement on the Isle of Wight after holidaying there several times and it eventually became reality, moving with his wife Lynn, son Graham and daughter-in-law Lindsey to Shalfleet in 2001.

There he spent the rest of his life, helping with administration and accounts at his son's Island-based company Barlow Tree Surgery.

Mr Barlow was well-known in the local pubs and attended pub social events including barbecues and days out to watch cricket and football.

He also loved watching his grandson Reece score goals at Downside Youth Football Club and watching his granddaughter Lauren horse riding at Allendale and the Island Riding Centre.

Bert leaves behind his wife, son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren.

He died on September 26

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