THE FAMILY of a man who died during a spearfishing accident say new safety guidelines will be a legacy to their son.

Ben and Nicki Scott, whose son Andrew Scott lost his life two years ago, were at the launch of 'A Guide to Safe Spearfishing’, and said they hope the advice may help prevent another tragedy.

The publication was funded by money raised at Andrew’s funeral. It has been written by diving experts and produced by the British Spearfishing Association (BSA).

Bicycle engineer Mr Scott was just 27 when he drowned at Ringstead Bay, which is where a launch event for the booklet was held on Sunday.

His family came along to speak with the divers who attended - some of whom helped search for and find Andrew’s body.

"We're very pleased that some good is coming from the tragedy of Andrew’s death", Ben Scott said.

"The association has done an excellent job and made us feel very welcome as part of their community".

Andrew's mother Nicki described him as "a quiet young man" who loved sports. "Andrew’s tragic death has been a devastating loss to our family and his friends", she said. "His death has left a large hole in our family".

Matt Newman, secretary of the British Spearfishing Association, described a show of solidarity at Sunday's launch and dive event in the morning.

"We had a great day - it really was a pleasure to have Andrew Scott's family there to promote the booklet", he said.

"The guide is already proving to be a success. We hope to make the sport safer and more enjoyable for all."

'A Guide to Safe Spearfishing' includes crucial advice about what to do in the case of a shallow water blackout.

At an inquest, Dorset's coroner said Mr Scott could have suffered a blackout, although it was not possible to determine the exact cause. His death was recorded as accidental.

"If anything good can come of Andrew’s death it can be to educate others", coroner Rachael Griffin said at the time.

Paying tribute to all involved in the rescue, Nicki Scott said she was "simply blown away" by the work of volunteers from the coastguard and RNLI. "They are all unsung heroes - we are very grateful to you all", she added.

For information visit www.underwaterfishing.co.uk