Haxby House Explosion - Family Pay Tribute

23 February 2016, 17:41 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

The family of a 63 year old man who died in a house explosion in Haxby near York, have paid tribute.

Father-of-one Paul Wilmott is believed to have been alone inside the house in Springwood on Friday when the explosion happened.

In a written statement, Mr Wilmott's family described him as a "fun and inspiring" person who was extremely kind and enjoyed life.

Their statement reads: "Paul was born in York and had lived here all his life. Paul had worked for many years at Leeds Beckett University as the specialist sound engineer with the video production unit. He had been a volunteer with York Hospital Radio since he was a young man.

"As their technical officer, he did many outside broadcasts including from the York Barbican and York Minister, as well as the city's Joseph Rowntree Theatre and the Theatre Royal.

"He and his partner, Olivia, had been together for over nine years and shared a love of ice skating."

His son, Ian, described his father as a happy person, who was fun and inspiring.

Olivia said: "He was the kindest, gentlest person I have ever known."

Mr Wilmott also leaves behind his mother and brother.

Investigations are ongoing into what caused it.

An inquest is expected to open and adjourn on Thursday 25 February.