Thank you all. Yes, it was Alber's Cove! And thanks for the origins. I found 2 versions, but I'm an ungrateful lout - I don't think either match Joe's version. Music is a funny thing - some songs grab you, others don't. But that story lives, or should live on.
But at least I now have one, to remember. I always thought the lyrics were searing, with even an eerie hint of 'Ode to Billy Joe'...
And John M - that is probably the cassette he gave me. And maybe I remember his guitar? If you had a CD, I'd ask you to post or email it. But cassettes are like ancient technology.

RIP, Joe. I always enjoyed singing this song. I hope I did it justice!

I've always had a soft spot for these mournful songs. Like David Wilcox's 'Jamie's Secret'. It takes the air out of me each time I hear it. https://youtu.be/nRvw89QxVKY