A keen yachtswoman and Isle of Wight business owner of more than three decades has died aged 88.

Tributes are being paid to Heather Kershaw, born Bastiani, who passed away in January.

Born in Freshwater in 1936, Heather's ancestors originated from Parma, Italy and were fishermen, lifeboatmen and smugglers.

Her family said research suggests her original ancestors came to England as marble stonemasons employed to build the Brighton Pavilion around 1775 and 1785. 

Heather's first job was with the Post Office at Totland and then Yarmouth, where she met many people.

From there she transferred to the General Post Office as a switchboard telephonist, until family commitments meant she had to spend more time at home.

Her family described her as a "fine yachtswoman" who sailed thousands of miles, at times in very extreme weather conditions.

In 1973 she established her first business in Freshwater called Chelone, which eventually moved to a larger site two doors away and was renamed, Chelone Deux.

After 33 successful years, the boutique shop closed when Heather retired.

Aside from work, Heather had many hobbies including photography and painting.

She was also very family-oriented and loved spending time with the younger members of the family.

Heather died on January 27, 2024.