Tributes to pilot killed in mid-air crash

The family of the pilot who died following a mid-air plane crash in Warwickshire has released an emotional tribute. 

A statement from James Beagley's family said: "His dream was to become a commercial pilot and he sacrificed much of the lifestyle we all take for granted to fund his dream.
"At the same time lived full out and enjoyed every moment of living the dream."

Friends and colleges have also paid their respects on a memorial page on a social networking site. One reads: "You chased your dreams with vibrant spirit and brought warmth and happiness to us all. May you rest in Peace."
Another described the 34-year-old as 'the most genuine, honest and decent guy I know'.

James, of High Wycombe, died on Sunday, while taking part in a routine survey for Reconnaissance Ventures Ltd, where he worked.
Less than a minute from landing, the Cessna 402 light aircraft he collided with a two-seater plane and crashed into woodland near Coombe Abbey. 

All four crew members on board the Cessna - which included, James, Sophie Hastings, 28, from Derbyshire, Harvey Antrobus, 28, from Warwickshire, Sybille Gautrey, 33, from Northamptonshire - perished in the crash. 
The pilot of the Rand KR-2, Brian Normington, of Lemington Spa, also died. 

James grew up in Bourne End and was educated in Maidenhead.
He dreamed of becoming a pilot and studied aeronautical engineering in Kingston, gaining his private pilots licence aged 21.

For many years he worked for the West London Aero Club, in White Waltham, Maidenhead as a member of the ground crew, with responsibility for fire and rescue. 
 
In the past year he had moved to the West Midlands to continue working towards his dream of becoming a commercial pilot. 

Reconnaissance Ventures Ltd group released a company statement earlier this morning:
"All the staff at RVL have been deeply shocked and profoundly upset by the loss of four friends and colleagues in last Sunday's mid air collision near Coventry airport.
"Our first thoughts are with the family at this awful time.

"All four were exceptionally talented individuals, trained to the highest of standards and skilled and conscientious as any in their respective professions. Their loss will be felt for a very long time and in due course we will find a fitting way to pay tribute to them." 

Tributes to James can be posted in the comment boxes below.