A DYING man has donated a gift to his home town to mark his love of the sea.
Cancer sufferer Geoff Aves, 48, of Sandringham Road in Hartlepool, has handed over a hand-crafted oak seat which has been given pride of place at the Historic Quay.
The former merchant seaman presented the seat on behalf of fellow seaman to Hartlepool Borough Council museums officer Ian Whitehead.
The father-of-one said: "I had several memorable and enjoyable years in the Merchant Navy and I wanted to leave a legacy behind on behalf of seaman past and present. I've always loved the sea. When I was younger, I spent many happy hours watching ships come and go in the docks.
"The Historic Quay is a very appropriate location and I hope it will be well used by the many visitors."
The seat has been placed near the children's adventure playship so parents can sit and watch their children playing.
Mr Whitehead said: "When Mr Aves approached us we wanted to help grant one of his final wishes."
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