Tributes have been paid by the family of a man who tragically died in a houseboat fire at a Worcestershire pub on Christmas Day.
Chef Ben Hardy lost his life in the early hours whilst staying on a boat that was moored at the Anchor Inn, Wyre Piddle.
Emergency services attended including an ambulance plus three fire engines and rescue boat from Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue after receiving a 999 call at 7.32am but sadly 37-year-old Mr Hardy was pronounced dead at the scene.
His sister Kirstie Trower described him as a ‘very, very talented chef’ who loved his work and ‘happiest when in a kitchen, music festival or near the coast’.
She said her ‘footloose and fancy free’ brother never stayed in one place for long and travelled the country pursuing his dream career.
The Observer understands that he had only been passing through Worcestershire for the festive season and was working as a freelance chef at the Anchor Inn due to an unexpected vacancy. It is believed he was due to start a new permanent job.
“My mum devastatingly received a visit from the police later on Christmas Day to inform her. I can’t put into words how devastated we all are,” she added.
Mr Hardy leaves behind a mum, step dad, nieces, nephews and great nephews.
Since the incident his sister has set up a GoFundMe page to raise to help to cover the cost of his funeral.
The cause of the fire is currently unknown and under investigation.
