Heartbreak as Teesside Princess owner Ian Edge dies after tragic skiing accident in French Alps

Tributes have been paid to the "kind and generous" owner of the Teesside Princess following his tragic death.

Ian Edge - who snapped up the iconic Stockton tourist attraction back in 2017 - has sadly died just six weeks after sustaining injuries in a skiing accident in the French Alps. The 58-year-old was also known for his charity work, and for offering the boat to fundraising groups such as Teesside Dementia, Thornaby FC, and Yarm Cat Rescue for free.

The Ingleby Barwick dad-of-three was also the owner of popular pub The Falcon, in Hilton, alongside his son Matthew. Ian is now being remembered as a "one-off, a kind, generous man who could turn his hand to anything" ahead of his funeral at Stockton Crematorium’s Maplewood Chapel on April 26.

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Ian "took a leap of faith" when he purchased the Teesside Princess, which has been a staple on the River Tees for decades. After paying £105,000 for the vessel, he set out his mission to transform its "desperate booze cruise" image.

The businessman wanted to create a "relaxing and fun pleasure cruiser that highlights rather than hinders the area" and gave the boat a major refurbishment. It then went on to win several accolades, including being crowned the "Boat Tour of the Year 2020" at the Travel & Hospitality Awards.

Due to the vision and knowledge of Ian, the Teesside Princess continues to sail down the Tees to this day. It's still regularly praised online for providing a "fantastic" experience - and continues to host everything from Christmas cruises, Sunday dinners, and celebrations to music evenings and one-off events.

Ian was known for his charitable endeavours, giving free boat rides to charities and groups to raise vital funds. Just last year, he helped to raise money to provide head torches for paramedics after hearing a story on BBC Tees.

A spokesperson for The Teesside Princess said: "Ian was a one-off, a kind, generous man who could turn his hand to anything. He transformed the image of the boat into something to be proud of and, in our busiest year yet his vision lives on. He will be greatly missed by the staff of the Princess and all his many friends and colleagues”.

The Teesside Princess posted a tribute to Ian, who passed away in James Cook Hospital on March 26, saying he "kept his promise by keeping us at home" and went on to "radically change Teesside's perception" of the Princess. Since then, hoards of social media users have paid tribute to Ian.

One person said: "Gosh, that's so very sad, I had no idea. His legacy will live on as he's created a superb Teesside attraction for all to enjoy. Rest In Peace." Another added: "He has left a heartbroken crew, who will be forever grateful for everything he has done for the Teesside Princess."

Ian’s funeral will take place on April 26 at 12pm.

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