TRIBUTES have continued to pour in following the death of experienced skydiver Chas McNeil, as a fundraiser to support his family nears its target.

McNeil, 49, was pronounced dead at Dunkeswell Aerodrome on Saturday afternoon after losing his life during a wingsuit jump.

A British Skydiving Board of Inquiry will now be convened to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Described as a hugely respected and much-loved member of the aviation and adventure sports community, McNeil had completed more than 10,000 jumps during his skydiving career.

In a statement, Skydive Sandown said it was with “profound sadness” that it shared the “heartbreaking news” of his passing.

The organisation said: “Chas was a hugely respected and much-loved member of the aviation and adventure sports community. A highly experienced skydiver with over 10,000 jumps, his passion for the skies extended far beyond skydiving alone – touching paragliding, speed flying, kitesurfing, fishing, and so many lives along the way.

“During 2022, 2023 and 2024, Chas brought skydiving to the island with Skydive Isle of Wight. Many will have known and met him during this time, as he helped make dreams come true for so many, earning enormous respect within our community.

“Our thoughts are with Chas’s family, friends, and everyone affected by this devastating loss. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.”

Mark Tether, a skydiving instructor in Neverathon, paid tribute to his “great lifelong mate”, describing his death as a “huge loss”.

He said: “Not only a great lifelong mate, but a huge loss to the community, be it skydiving, paragliding, speed flying, kite surfing and even fishing. You lived a full life mate just like you wanted to. You will be missed by all who you crossed paths with.”

(Picture: Mark Tether)

Veterans charity Phoenix Heroes CIC also shared its shock, describing McNeil as one of its first Regional Captains in the launch of its Veteran Carp Angling Community.

A fundraising page set up to help his family has raised £1,652 of its £1,800 target – 92% of the total, as supporters rally to give him a fitting send-off.