St Peter's Church and the Swordfish and Dolphin pubs in Newlyn were packed for the funeral and wake of one of the area's most readily recognisable characters.Wearing his trademark hat and coat and always accompanied by his faithful dog 'Buster', Tom Robinson was a familiar sight on the streets of Penzance and Newlyn. 

Born in Ireland, he moved to the area 30 years ago having spent his early adulthood in the Army.

In Penwith, he became a respected trawler engineer in Newlyn, also working on North Sea oil rigs before the demands of looking after his three daughters, Yo, Oona and Chevvy, took over.

In recent years, he featured in The Cornishman, first campaigning for the return of park benches to Penlee Park and then sharing the limelight with Buster as consort to his pet's Mock Mayor.

Long time friend Richard Vanhinsbergh, speaking at his funeral, said: "Tom was essentially a kind man with a big, generous heart, without greed, envy or malice.

"He was a natural raconteur and it was always a pleasure to share time with him."

In recent years he found a measure of contentment in the companionship of Gillian, in his poetry and in his children and grandchildren.

Daughter Oona paid tribute at the funeral with the lines: "Through a life of adversity but seldom prosperous, your words were sought for solace and truth.

"Your spirit never faltered, you always shone; I will slay the lies and uphold the truth; I will be your champion as you were mine."

article copyright THE CORNISHMAN 

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