It was with deep sadness that I learned on Friday of the death of Robin Abel who passed away in his sleep this week aged only 59. I'd known Robin for many many years, and as recently as last weekend had spent an hour in his company at Beeston whilst we tried to relocate an Alpine Swift which was hopefully heading that way. The fact that he was out scouring the coast for it typified his dedication to his Norfolk year list which he pursued with a tireless enthusiasm year in year out which could only be admired.
Although its a phrase too often used, Robin really was one of the nice guys on the countys birding scene, and upon arriving at a twitch he would be one of the few trusted people I'd head for to find out the gen. He will be sorely missed by many and of course our thoughts are with his family and friends.
Robin (nearest the camera) at the Winterton Black Lark, April 2008
