Belinda Taylor among two skydivers who died in ‘tragic accident’ at UK’s highest airfield as grieving families demand answers
A DEVASTATED partner has shared an anguished tribute after a beloved mum-of-four was killed in a catastrophic skydiving accident at Britain’s highest airfield.
Belinda Taylor was one of two skydivers who plunged to their deaths in what officials called a “tragic accident” at Dunkeswell Airfield in Devon on Friday, June 13.
In a heartbreaking social media post, the partner of one of the victims wrote: “I want answers. Today, they took my world away.”
The grieving partner continued: “I miss you so much, you were my best friend, thank you for everything you (have) done for me. From making my children feel at home to putting up with my mess.”
Family’s touching tribute
Mrs Taylor’s eldest son Connor Bowles paid an emotional tribute to his mother, revealing she was not only a mother to four children – three adult boys and one teenage girl – but also a devoted grandmother to two young children.
On Friday, June 13, our family lost our mum Belinda Taylor,” Connor told DevonLive.
“She was a selfless woman who wanted only the best for others and especially her loved ones. She will be deeply missed and will leave an everlasting impression on all those she has met in life.
The heartbroken family has asked for “peace and privacy during this time whilst we grieve our loss and remember our mum as we should do.
Emergency response at UK’s highest airfield
Emergency services rushed to Dunkeswell Aerodrome at approximately 1pm on Friday following urgent concerns for the welfare of two people.
Despite the best efforts of medics at the scene, both skydivers were pronounced dead at Britain’s highest licensed airfield, which sits 839 feet above sea level in the Blackdown Hills.
Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that families of both victims had been informed and investigations into the incident were underway.
A police spokesperson said: “Emergency services were called to the area of Dunkeswell Aerodrome at around 1pm on Friday 13 June following concerns for the welfare of two people.
Partner’s desperate plea
The partner’s anguished message continued: “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.”
The raw emotion in the tribute has touched hearts across the tight-knit skydiving community and beyond, with dozens offering their condolences.
Major investigation launched
British Skydiving confirmed it had launched a full Board of Inquiry investigation into the tragedy, which occurred during what sources suggest was a tandem jump with Skydive Buzz.
Chief Executive Robert Gibson said: “Today, Friday 13 June 2025, 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.”
He added that once complete, a comprehensive report would be submitted to the coroner, police, Civil Aviation Authority, and British Skydiving Safety & Training Committee.
Charity events cancelled
Local charity Devon in Sight announced it was suspending all upcoming skydiving fundraising events in the wake of the tragedy.
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.
He added: “At this time our thoughts are with the instructor and student who lost their lives and their families, friends and colleagues.
Community in shock
The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community, with tributes pouring in from across Devon and the wider skydiving world.
One local resident wrote: “I’m so sorry to hear this news. I’ve enjoyed a lot of time up at Dunkeswell watching the skydivers. Sending my condolences to everyone involved.”
Another added: “This is so sad. My heart goes out to everyone that witnessed this and of course the families. Most of my family have done a sky dive and not in a million years did I ever think it could have ended like this.”
Historic airfield’s safety record
Dunkeswell Aerodrome, a former American naval base during World War Two, markets itself as offering the “highest tandem skydive in the UK” with jumps from 7,000, 10,000, and 15,000 feet.
The popular venue operates skydiving on Wednesdays to Sundays and Bank Holidays almost year-round, with spectators regularly gathering at the airfield’s Aviator coffee bar and restaurant to watch jumpers.
Police appeal for witnesses
Devon and Cornwall Police have asked anyone with information about the tragedy to contact them on 101, quoting reference 50250150193.
Scene guards remained in place at the airfield throughout the weekend as forensic teams conducted their investigation.
The Civil Aviation Authority confirmed it was aware of the incident but said it could not comment further due to the ongoing investigation.
‘Professional support needed’
One supporter offered: “My heart goes out to the family and friends at this heart-wrenching time. My heart also goes out to the colleagues at Skydive Buzz – I know this is also a hugely difficult time for you all as well.”
I hope everyone involved gets the professional support they need and has family and friends around to lean on in this difficult time. I am so, so sorry for your losses.”
As investigations continue, the skydiving community has rallied around the grieving families, with many changing their social media profiles to honour the victims of Friday the 13th’s devastating tragedy.
