Prominent FoG member dies after Catalan Bay sea rescue

A prominent member of the Friends of Gibraltar Society died in St Bernard’s hospital yesterday after he was rescued from the sea in Catalan Bay.

The Royal Gibraltar Police confirmed the death of 64-year old British national Arthur Timothy Lawson-Cruttenden.

The RGP believes he got into difficulties when he went body surfing and had to be rescued from the sea near the eastside reclamation. He was taken to the hospital for treatment where he later passed away.

A Coroner’s investigation has been initiated to look into the circumstances surrounding the death.

Mr Lawson-Cruttenden was a well-known member of the Friends of Gibraltar group based in the UK and worked as a solicitor specialising in cases involving harassment, stalking and reputation management.

During his career Mr Lawson-Cruttenden co-drafted the Stalking Bill in the UK and also acted in some high-profile cases, representing Johnny Rotten of the Sex Pistols and comedian and children’s book author David Walliams and his former wife, model Lara Stone.

Mr Lawson-Cruttenden also sought an injunction at the High Court to prevent activists from entering private estates during fox hunting season.

Prior to working as a solicitor, Mr Lawson-Cruttenden read law at Sidney Sussex College in Cambridge University and joined the Blues & Royals in the Armed Forces.

Yesterday Sir Adrian Johns, a former Governor of Gibraltar and chairman of the Friends of Gibraltar, expressed the society’s shock at the news.

“We were deeply saddened to hear the tragic news about our friend and colleague, Tim,” Sir Adrian said.

“He had strong family links on the Rock and was a moving force as a trustee and director of the Friends of Gibraltar.”

“His death has come as a complete shock to us all and he will be sorely missed.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Lorna, Imogen, and Venetia at this difficult time.” 

Mr Lawson-Cruttenden was in Gibraltar visiting family, the RGP said.

The RGP also offered its condolences to Mr Lawson-Cruttenden’s family and friends.