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The family of a man who died in a helicopter crash have paid tribute to him.
Police were called to Ings Road, in Bentley, Doncaster, on Thursday morning after reports that the helicopter had crashed in a field.
Peter Smith, 70, suffered serious injuries in the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The pilot, a 41-year-old man, and two other passengers, a 58-year-old woman and a 10-year-old boy, received minor injuries.
In a statement released by South Yorkshire Police, Mr Smith’s family have described him as “a beloved husband, father and grandfather”, and said they were “all devastated by this sudden loss”.
Peter Smith, 70, died following a helicopter crash in Bentley, Doncaster (South Yorkshire Police)
His family said in the tribute: “Peter was one of the smartest men who liked to spend his time making and fixing things. He had a real passion for aviation, and this was something he shared with his family.
“He particularly liked to spend time with his grandchildren doing crafts and playing. He was a proud family man who spent a lot of his time with his son, both working with and socially. Peter loved to have meals out with his wife and had a particularly sweet tooth.
“We understand that a parallel investigation is currently underway between the Air Accidents Investigation Branch and South Yorkshire Police, which we are supporting, and we ask members of the public to not speculate on the circumstances surrounding the accident.
“We would like to ask for privacy during this incredibly difficult time to allow us to come to terms with what has occurred and grieve for the loss of Peter.”
Police attended the scene of the crash near Doncaster just after 10am on Thursday. The helicopter, a Robinson R44 Raven II, came down shortly after taking off.
Emergency services were called to the scene and were in attendance alongside an air accident investigation team.
The helicopter was a private flight that took off from Gamston airport near Retford shortly before it crashed. The Robinson R44 Raven II is a four-seater light aircraft, which was based at the airport and operated by an on-site tenant.
Kuki Helicopters, located at the airport in Nottinghamshire, is thought to own the aircraft. The firm, which offers flying lessons and experiences, said it would “continue to support relevant agencies concerning the ongoing investigation”.
In a post on Facebook, the firm said: “At this very sad time all our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of all those involved in the helicopter incident which happened yesterday.
“Our heartfelt condolences are sent to everyone affected by this tragedy.”
South Yorkshire Police is asking for anyone with information or who was in the area at the same time and saw the event unfold to get in touch. The police are keen to hear from those with footage of the helicopter leading up to the crash.
