It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Mike Sharratt, who, together with his wife Barbara, founded Pirates Cave Chandlery in 1991.

Mike was well known throughout the local community, recognisable from both Pirates Cave and a member of various local clubs. After selling Pirates Cave in 2011 he and Barbara moved to the Isle of Wight, enjoying their retirement together, and of course, continued their trips overseas to enjoy sailing in a warmer climate.

Pirates Cave’s now Managing Director, Scott, once Saturday-boy for Mike & Barbara, remembers Mike fondly: “Mike was a true gentleman, always with a story to tell or advice to give. He had the ability to make everyone feel special and would always take an interest in everything you did. Working at Pirates Cave whilst a teenager wasn’t like work – it was an education – mainly in his beloved sailing grounds of the BVI! Over those years and since, Mike and Barbara became friends and I was pleased to make the trip to visit Mike just a couple of weeks ago. We often hear the quote from Mark Twain, and I’m sure Mike lived a life in accordance with it: “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by things you didn’t do than by the ones you did. So, throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sail. Explore. Dream. Discover.” All of our thoughts go out to Barbara and family at this difficult time.”