Heartfelt tributes paid to Burgess Hill pilot who died in plane crash

The parents of a Burgess Hill pilot who died in a plane crash have paid tribute to their '˜talented' son.
Flying officer Cameron ForsterFlying officer Cameron Forster
Flying officer Cameron Forster

Cameron Forster, 21, a former pupil at Hurstpierpoint College, and Ajvir Singh Sandhu, 25, from Essex, died after the private aircraft they were flying crashed in North Yorkshire on Saturday April 30.

Cameron, a flying officer in the Royal Air Force, was conducting a privately arranged flight in a Slingsby Firefly aircraft along with Ajvir when the aircraft crash landed.

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In a statement his parents said: “Cameron is a loving son, friend and a caring brother to his two sisters. We will miss him in more ways than can be imagined.

“He was in the prime of his life, living his dream and he excelled in everything he put his mind to. A talented musician, sportsman and pilot, we are immensely proud of all he has achieved in his short life.

“Cameron was a larger than life character and was always positive. 

“He would not wish any of us to mourn his passing; rather celebrate his time with us and his achievements.

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“Whilst we will all miss him terribly we feel privileged to have had him in our lives. We naturally mourn the passing of this exceptional person and if you would like to do something to honour Cameron’s memory please just join with us in remembering the positive influence he was to all of us. That above all would make him smile.”

A statement from Cameron’s fellow student pilots read: “Cam was the quintessential RAF pilot: talented in the air, incredibly enthusiastic about all things flying, and eager about every opportunity to get stuck in with his friends.

“He was very much the hub of a tightly knit social group and a face that everybody always wanted to see in the bar. We’re absolutely devastated to have lost such a positive, entertaining and loyal friend.”

The pair’s Squadron Commander, Wing Commander Chris Cartmell, said: “All the members of 72(Reserve) Squadron are deeply saddened by the loss of our close colleagues and friends who were involved in the tragic flying accident on Saturday.

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“Ajvir and Cameron were extremely popular members of our squadron and their loss will be keenly felt by all.

“It is very sad that two talented young pilots have been taken from us so early in what would have undoubtedly been highly successful flying careers. Our thoughts are with their families and friends at this difficult time.”

The Air Accident Investigation Board attended the scene of the accident and will report its findings in due course.

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