Tributes have been flooding in following the sudden passing of Lough Erne enthusiast, historian and boat builder Fred Ternan, described as "a true son of Fermanagh".

Fred – late of Rossclare, Killadeas – passed away suddenly on Monday, February 28 at Altnagelvin Hospital.

He was a co-founder of Lough Erne Heritage, and was a font of knowledge on all aspects of the maritime history of Lough Erne.

Paying tribute to Fred on behalf of Lough Erne Heritage, a spokesperson said: "Fred was a true son of Fermanagh, born on an island on Lower Lough Erne.

"He was known to many through his lifelong interest in boating and sailing. His knowledge of sailing was second to none, and he inspired many people to take up sailing.

"He worked tirelessly to promote the history and heritage of boating and island life, and left no stone unturned in his quest to achieve a goal, of which he achieved many.

"He was passionate about Lough Erne Cots, Snipe sailing dinghies, and his Fairy yacht. A proud family man, he will be sorely missed.

"Our deepest condolences to his wife, Florence; son, Michael; daughter, Edwina; brother, George and his wider family circle."

Fred was also a central part of the Lough Erne Landscape Partnership (LELP) from its early inception through to what it is today, and he played many parts in ensuring that Lough Erne and its heritage would be respected in the hearts and minds of many for years to come.

A LELP spokesperson said: "Fred’s contribution to our landscape included the roles he played in the development stage of LELP, the role he played in bringing the community of Lough Erne Heritage into the programme as partners in 2019, the positions he held on the LELP Board, Working Group, and legacy Sub-Group, and the projects he helped develop and deliver.

"These included the Lough Erne Cot Building project and the Belleek Regatta, the Life on the Islands project, the development of a Schools Sailing Club for Enniskillen, the volunteer role he played at the Inniskillings Museum, and the Feasibility Study for a Lough Erne Maritime Heritage Museum that he led with such enthusiasm and passion.

"We will remember Fred fondly for each of these roles, and for the many friendly conversations we had with him over the years about his passion for Lough Erne."

Fred's funeral was arranged by W. T. Morrison, Funeral Directors, and took place on Thursday, March 3, with a Service of Thanksgiving in the Priory Church Killadeas at 2pm, followed by burial in the adjoining churchyard.

Family flowers only please, donations in lieu if desired to Chest Heart and Stroke. Cheques should be made payable to W. T. Morrison, Funeral Directors, and sent to No 41, Darling Street, Enniskillen, BT74 7DP.

Dearly loved husband of Florence, beloved father of Michael and Edwina, and dear brother of George and the late Ruby, Bill and Violet, Fred is lovingly remembered by all his family and family circle.