Sir,
On Monday, September 8, after only six days in Larnaca, my wonderful partner Dean Hearne tragically lost his life while diving on the Zenobia wreck. He had dived this wreck hundreds of times and knew it very well, and he was also regarded by the diving world as an excellent, safe and cautious diver. Dean became trapped in an area that had obviously had a recent ventilation pipe collapse, and he ran out of air while trying to find another way out.
I would like to implore the authorities to arrange to cut out windows in all areas of the wreck where a diver could possibly become trapped to provide an alternative escape route. Most divers are naturally curious people who love to explore, and they also know and understand the personal risks they make every time they dive — however we should endeavour to make this as safe as is humanly possible.
I would also like to publicly thank Ian McMurray of Octopus diving, Dhekelia Rd, for finding and bringing my wonderful man to the surface so I could take him home to England to all his family to bury him. Ian risked his own life three times on the Monday to search for Dean in a previously unexplored part of the wreck. Sadly he suffered hypothermia and slight decompression sickness, and as darkness fell the search was called off. On Tuesday morning he returned at first light, eventually found Dean, and along with Andy, an instructor from Octopus, brought his friend up. How can I ever thank this very brave and knowledgeable man for his amazing courage? It was his intimate knowledge and understanding of the Zenobia that brought my beloved back to me.
Additionally my thanks go to the marine and local police, Dive-In Diving Centre, other divers unknown to me who searched and assisted in other ways, and the British High Commission for their assistance.
Our friends in Larnaca have been wonderful: their care, love and support, both night and day, have helped me through the worst time of my life. My family who came out to be with me are astounded at this little community and the level of their care. Special thanks go to Steve Allen for his love and practical help and to Danny Damianou from the Daniandry Hotel who arranged a wonderful tribute and benefit night to remember Dean and raise money to help towards his funeral, even though they too were suffering his loss — thanks to all who contributed. Also Daniel Anthony for his help in returning Dean’s diving equipment.
The diving community is a very close family and I have received messages of condolence and support from all over the world – thank you: they help to ease the pain of losing a kind, loving, self-effacing and funny man. I have lost my ‘Siamese twin’, and life will never be the same.
Dean was very happy in Cyprus: he lived for diving, and loved the people, sunshine and lifestyle. I know he was very happy when he died, so thank you Cyprus. When I am stronger I am sure I will return to live out our dream.
Jackie Bowers,
Stone, Staffs, UK
