A HUSBAND paid a fitting tribute to his beloved wife...by sending her ashes into the skies above the sea at Mersea Harbour as part of a fireworks display.

Mick Tyler arranged for wife Margaret’s ashes to be embedded into a special firework which was fired as part of the showstopping display which brings an end to Mersea Regatta.

The couple were regular visitors to waterside sporting event and the island was one of their most-loved spots.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette: Margaret and Mick Tyler Margaret and Mick Tyler

Mr Tyler, 74, said: “We used to go down to the regatta most years if we could, mainly for the fireworks.

“It was something we had talked about over the years and we thought it was quite a good idea - to go out with a bang. I found it sort of gave me a sense of closure on things, a last finale.”

Mrs Tyler died at the age of 71 after a decade long battle with Alzheimer’s.

The couple had known each other since they were teenagers and were married for 51 years.

Mrs Tyler spent the last five-and-a-half years in a care home but Mr Tyler has fond memories of visiting Mersea from their Colchester home and walking its coastline.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette: The fireworks set up at Mersea HarbourThe fireworks set up at Mersea Harbour

Mr Tyler said: “Once a week we used to go to Mersea and go walking. We loved it there.

“I wanted to do something different after Margaret passed away and so I approached Dynamic Fireworks and they told me it could be done.

“I was going to do it privately but obviously you’re restricted as to where you can do it.

“I suggested East Mersea and then I heard Dynamic were doing the regatta fireworks.

“I asked them and they said it was fine as long as the regatta committee said it was OK.”

The committee agreed and so an emotional Mr Tyler and daughter Gemma watched the tribute from the crowds on Saturday.

He said: “I did not realise but in the middle of the display there were some fireworks shaped like hearts - that moment really got me. It was obviously emotional for me.

“I hope she would have liked it but it was for me as well as her.”

Dynamic Fireworks offers tribute fireworks for use at home or at a place of significance to families.

For more information, visit dynamicfireworks.co.uk.