Tributes to victim of blast
The family of the Bath victim of an explosion at a recycling centre have paid a short tribute to the 64-year-old contractor.
Mike James, the owner of Beaufort Maintenance, was one of four people killed at the Wessex Water plant at Avonmouth
The victims of the blast have been formally identified and post mortem examinations have been carried out, Avon and Somerset Police have said.
Mr James, along with Luke Wheaton, 16, from Bradley Stoke, Ray White, 57, from Portishead, and Brian Vickery, 63, from Clevedon, died in the incident on December 3.
Mr Vickery and Mr White were employees of Wessex Water and Luke was an apprentice at the firm.
In tributes released through police, the families of Luke, Mr White, Mr Vickery and Mr James described how they would be missed.
Mr James’s family said he was a “brother, husband, father and Grampy. He will be missed.”
Luke’s family said: “Taken from us way too soon. Words cannot describe what we are going through.
“We are so proud of Luke, who is the most gorgeous, loving, happy, talented, perfect son.
“Luke had everything to look forward to in life and has left a massive hole that will never be filled.”
They said he adored his family and would be missed by his large network of friends, including from football, rugby and school.
“Luke knows how much he is loved and will be dearly missed by everyone. We just wish we could bring him back,” his family said.
“Always in our hearts and thoughts - life will never be the same again.”
Mr White’s family said they are “struggling to come to terms” with his death.
“He was a wonderful son, brother and father to his two sons,” they said.
“He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
“The family respectfully request privacy at this difficult time to allow them to grieve in peace.”
Mr Vickery’s family said there are “not enough words to describe the impact” that he had on his family, friends and so many.
“He brightened everyone’s lives with his cheeky and wicked sense of humour,” they said.
“Nothing meant more to him than being around the ones he loved and it’s difficult to think of him without it bringing a smile to your face.
“We feel blessed to have had him in our lives and we will cherish these memories forever.”
The families are being supported by specialist family liaison officers.
They thanked those who had contacted them for their support but requested their privacy be respected.