One of the best known residents of the south of the Island has died.

Tom Glassey, who had been fighting cancer for some time, passed away yesterday.

Born in Castletown in 1953, he lost his sight while still a baby.

He went on to document his experiences in his book "Who's afraid of the Dark".

In later life he embraced computer technology and became a keen "blogger", documenting his fight against cancer and trying to persuade people of the health dangers of smoking.

Extracts of his blog were also published in the monthly magazine Manx Tails.

Mr Glassey was known for always being upbeat and positive and for his love of ships and the sea.

Long time friend Dave McWilliams says it's a sad loss for the Island and the local community and one of his fondest memories of him has a strong maritime connection: