A couple killed in a mid-air helicopter crash in Australia have been named by family.
Ron and Diane Hughes, 65 and 57, are believed to be from the Wirral. The couple died following a crash involving two helicopters on the Gold Coast, Australia on Monday, January 2.
Diane's brother shared a public Facebook post, which said: "The family will make a statement when we are ready. For those who don't know my sister and her husband where involved in the helicopter crash on the Gold Coast yesterday. We would also like to thank you all for the love and support we have received. We are truly humbled at this heartbreaking time."
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Queensland Police said the crash happened at around 2pm when one helicopter was landing and another was taking off near Sea World Drive in Main Beach. One of the helicopters managed to successfully land on a sandbank.
The pilot, named locally as 40-year-old Ash Jenkinson, was reported to have died at the scene alongside three passengers, Mr and Mrs Hughes and 36-year-old Vanessa Tadros from New South Wales. Ms Tadros' 10-year-old son Nicholas was taken to hospital in a critical condition as were Winnie De Silva, aged 33, and her nine-year-old son Leon, it is reported.
An FCDO spokesperson earlier said: "We are supporting the family of two British nationals who died in Australia and are in contact with the local authorities."
Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell said the helicopter that was taking off was in the air for less than 20 seconds.
He said: “After the collision, it was a matter of seconds before it’s hit the ground. So it has unfolded very quickly.”
The ATSB has started an investigation into the crash and is piecing together what happened. Sea World Helicopters, a separate company from the theme park, expressed its condolences and said it was cooperating with the authorities handling the crash investigation.
It said: "We and the entire flying community are devastated by what has happened and our sincere condolences go to all those involved and especially the loved ones and family of the deceased."
Queensland premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the accident was an "unthinkable tragedy". She added: "My deepest sympathies are with each of the families and everyone affected by this terrible accident."
Operation Victor Sandlewood comprising Gold Coast Criminal Investigation Branch Detectives and the Forensic Crash Unit is assisting the Australian Transport Safety Bureau with investigations. An appeal for witnesses, especially those who have video of the crash, and who have not yet spoken to investigators remains current.
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