Tributes to man killed in collapse

FRIENDS have spoken of the “wonderful character” who died when a derelict church collapsed.

Jeffrey John Plevey, 55, died on Tuesday afternoon after the Citadel in Adamsdown collapsed during demolition.

A father and keen golfer at Wenvoe Castle Golf Club, Mr Plevey’s family described him on Wednesday as the “life and soul of any gathering”.

Now further tributes have been paid on social media by friends and family.

Posting on Facebook, colleague David Llewelyn Morgan said: “Gutted to hear the terrible news. Loved our banter on site. You will be sorely missed.”

Angela Smith added: “Such a sad tragedy that Jeff has died in this way when it could have been avoided, such a wonderful character he will be missed by so many.”

Flowers have also been left at the site of the collapsed Citadel on Bridge Street in Adamsdown.

Splott Road and Pearl Street remained closed last night as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Further tributes to Mr Plevey show him as a popular friend around the city.

Friend Robert Hartley said: “RIP big fella you were taken way too soon. Will miss our chats.”

Michael Thorne added: “Gone but never forgotten – good night bro.”

Other comments on social media have drawn attention to the building’s unstable condition.

A report presented to Cardiff council last year contained warnings about the building’s state including “inadequate support” for the partially collapsed rear of the building.

Facebook-user Karen French from Cardiff said: “So sad, this should never have happened building should have been pulled down years ago.”

Elizabeth Bousie added: “What a dreadful tragedy that should never have happened.”

A family tribute, released by South Wales Police, read: “We are saddened to announce the passing of Jeff – a much loved and treasured member of our family. A hard working man who was always life and soul of any gathering, of which there were many. He will be greatly missed by all his family and friends.”

Two others managed to escape the incident with minor injuries while specialist fire rescue officers were sent in to recover Mr Plevey’s body.

Detective Inspector Ian Bourne said: “I would like to pay tribute to my emergency and rescue service colleagues who worked in difficult and challenging circumstances.”