Andy Buchanan served as the PWA Press Officer from 2008 through till 2009 when he was first diagnosed with cancer at the age of 27. Despite being forced to give up his job to undergo treatment, Andy remained very much one of the team and paid frequent visits to the crew at events over the following years. He even returned to the job during a brief respite from illness and treatment, before finally moving on to pursue his dreams of becoming a pilot.

Those dreams were cut short however, when his illness returned and he was forced back into treatment.

Andy brought passion to windsurfing and his life as a whole which was obvious in his work. Never one to back away from a challenge - never mind how ridiculous and never mind how small the chance of success - Andy brought entertainment to many through his writing and his own activities. In a manner befitting the man, instead of hanging up his hat and waiting for the end, he threw himself headlong into the last few months, probably having more fun in those final weeks than most will experience in a lifetime.

Andy finally passed away peacefully in Cornwall, England, on 29th January.

Our thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to all whose lives Andy touched. He will be sorely missed by many.