Tributes to ‘Top Dog’ Lewis fisherman found dead in search for missing fishing boat

A fisherman found dead in a major search for a missing fishing boat has been described as the “Top Dog” and a “true gentleman”.

Douglas Craigie, 49, along with Murdo Morrison, 23, and Norman ‘Tam’ Murray, 40, were aboard the FV Kilda when it disappeared on Tuesday night.

On Wednesday morning, following a major search and rescue mission, Mr Craigie’s body was recovered, while his two crewmates remain missing along with the boat itself.

Following the announcement that Mr Craigie has died, tributes have been paid by those who knew him during his career as a lobster fisherman.

‘Born a legend’

John Scott, who knew Mr Craigie, praised his dedication and the advice he received.

He wrote: “Your probably one of the only fisherman that I looked up to. The ambition, courage, skill and talent you have earned yourself is something that only sounds right. Your title is something that everyone knows and can’t touch.

“The most dedicated, hardworking, kind man around. Your positivity towards myself and my sister Emma was rare. Never a bad word. Nothing but knowledge and respect. I will forever remember all these kind text and advice you’ve given myself and my sister, Which only a small handful have done, I very appreciate, a true gentleman, I’ll miss these texts and reels.

“May you rest in peace, and make sure to keep a sharp eye on me! Forever and always the untouchable ‘Top Dog’.”

Kevin Anderson posted: “Some folk were just born Legends, my Skipper you certainly were. So many memories. Thoughts are with all the families in these difficult hours.

“The sea has no mercy at times. Leave some lobsters up there for the rest of us Craigie.”

Ciaran Peck wrote: “Best in the business and more importantly a great guy, it was a pleasure knowing you, thoughts are with the families in these difficult times, the sea is an unforgiving place, rest easy Douglas, you’ll be missed by all.”

Douglas Macdonald wrote that it was a “privilege” to know Mr Craigie from when they worked together at a salmon factory on Carloway Pier.

Elle Flanagan commented: “I went to primary school with Douglas he was a lovely guy. Really funny from a lovely family. Such a huge loss for his family and for the Island. It’s a sad day.”

Kenneth Macleod, convenor of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, said: “It is a very dark day for the communities affected by this tragedy.

“We can’t even begin to comprehend what the families of the three fishermen are going through at this moment.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with them. It is not easy for the teams out searching, with very strong gusts of wind and heavy rain.

“We are very grateful for all those out searching in very challenging weather conditions.”

‘A very dark day’ for Lewis

At the Royal National Mod in Glasgow, a minute’s silence was held.

Mod organisers said: “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with everyone affected by yesterday’s tragedy on the Isle of Lewis.

The Seafarers Hospital Society posted: “The Seafarers Hospital Society is deeply saddened by the tragic news of the fishing vessel missing off the Isle of Lewis, in which one fisherman has lost his life and two others remain missing.

“Our heartfelt condolences go to the family and friends of the fisherman who has died, and our thoughts remain with the families and loved ones of the two missing crew members, who are enduring an incredibly distressing and uncertain time as search efforts continue.”

The folk band Skippinish paid tribute to the three men, saying: “Our thoughts are on the Isle of Lewis and the tragic loss of fishermen that have long been renowned on the West Coast of Scotland. Our deep condolences to all.

“Dear the fruitful bounty of the blind and savage foam.”