HEARTBREAKING tributes have poured in for a mum-of-four who was killed in a tragic tandem sky dive jump.
Emergency services rushed to Dunkeswell Airfield in Devon on Friday but two skydivers were both pronounced dead at the scene.
Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that families of the skydivers had been informed and investigations into the incident were underway.
Now, heartfelt tributes have poured in for two people including mum-of-four Belinda Taylor.
Her eldest son Connor Bowles told DevonLive: “On Friday, June 13, our family lost our mum Belinda Taylor.
“She was a mother of four children, three adult boys and one teenage girl, and a grandmother to two young children.
The woman was known for her selfless nature, always prioritizing the well-being of others, especially her loved ones. Her absence will be deeply felt, as she has left a lasting impact on everyone she crossed paths with.
“We as a family would like to ask for peace and privacy during this time whilst we grieve our loss and remember our mum as we should do.”
Cops asked anyone with information on the tragedy to get in touch.
Meanwhile, the partner of one of the skydivers wrote: “I want answers. Today, they took my world away.”
Expressing his emotions, he mentioned how much he misses her and considers her his closest companion. He expressed gratitude for her continuous support, whether it was making his children feel welcomed or tolerating his untidiness.
“I’m so lost without you. There’s just so much that I don’t have the words to express it. I feel so lost I don’t know where home is without you.”
British Skydiving Chief executive Robert Gibson confirmed that a probe had been launched and his organisation was assisting authorities.
In a statement he said: “Today British Skydiving has been notified of a tragic accident in which two jumpers lost their lives.
“Our deepest condolences go to their families, friends and the entire skydiving community.
“A British Skydiving Board of Inquiry will investigate the accident.
After the investigation is concluded, a comprehensive report will be filed with various authorities including the coroner, the police, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the British Skydiving Safety & Training Committee (STC), and any other relevant bodies.
“No further details will be provided at this time. We respectfully ask for privacy for all those affected at this difficult time.”
Local charity Devon in Sight told how it had suspended its upcoming skydiving events while the investigation was ongoing.
CEO Grahame Flynn said: “Having undertaken two skydive challenges in 2018 and 2022 I know how meticulous the team at Skydive Buzz are in their training.
“In view of this tragic news our events planned for Saturday 21st June, Wednesday 25th June and Saturday 5th July are suspended pending investigation.
“Our Jump for Sight Challenges have raised significant funds for our work over the years.
“At this time our thoughts are with the instructor and student who lost their lives and their families, friends and colleagues.”
Dunkeswell Aerodrome claims to have the ‘highest tandem skydive in the UK’ – with jumps ranging from 7,000, 10,000, and 15,000 feet.
It is a popular venue for parachuting, taking place on Wednesdays to Sundays and Bank Holidays almost all year round.
Spectators are able to watch jumpers from the airfield’s Aviator coffee bar and restaurant.
At 839 feet above sea level, Dunkeswell is the UK’s highest licenced airfield.
