The family of a “most wonderful, intelligent, kind man and father” have paid tribute to their loved one after they were named as the third victim in a helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight.
Simon Hewitt, 54, horse-riding instructor Justyna Czoska, 52, and her partner Wojciech Kowalkowski, 49, were killed when a helicopter crashed during a lesson near the town of Shanklin.
Ms Czoska and Mr Kowalkowski had travelled to the island from their home in Oxfordshire for a flying lesson. But the lesson ended in tragedy when the aircraft fell out of the sky just 20 minutes after taking off, killing them both as well as Mr Hewitt, who was from Barton-upon-Humber in Lincolnshire.
A man in his 30s who was also onboard was airlifted to hospital in Southampton following the incident, where he remains in a stable condition, according to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary.
The cause of the crash is not yet known.
The partner and family of Mr Hewitt said: “Simon was the most wonderful, intelligent, kind man and father. He brought so much joy and light into our lives. We are absolutely broken.”
Ms Czoska’s daughters and family said in a statement released through the force: “We are heartbroken to share the passing of our mum, she was beautiful, funny, talkative, optimistic and kind – always wanting to make those around her happy.
“She was our best friend, we miss the sound of her voice, we will miss her forever. The memories with her will last a lifetime.”
Mr Kowalkowski’s family said he was “the father of two loving children and will be deeply missed”.
Ms Czoska’s daughter added: “He always made me happy and always made my mum happy and always made what was a family. He helped and was a heart-filled person.”
The daughter Julia Buzar, 22, has been left devastated by the shocking loss, her partner Jacob Butler explained on a GoFundMe page set up to support her.
He wrote: “On August 25th, my partner’s beloved mum and her partner tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight.
“This sudden and devastating event has left all us heartbroken and struggling to cope with the loss.
“We are now trying to bring them both back to Poland so they can be laid to rest with their families, in the place they called home.
“The cost of repatriation, funeral arrangements, and travel is more than we can manage alone, and we are asking for support during this incredibly difficult time.
“Any donation, no matter how small, will help us give them the farewell they deserve.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your kindness, support, and for keeping our family in your thoughts. With love, Jacob and Julia.”
Ms Buzar also wrote online: “I have no words. The world took my mum too soon, she was the best mum you could ask for, loved by everyone.
“I never thought I would be writing something like this. Please if anyone can help bring them back to Poland so they can be with their families it would mean the world to me.”
Turpins Lodge Riding School in Hook Norton, where Ms Czoska worked as a horse-riding instructor, posted on Facebook a tribute to her describing her as “our lovely Justyna”.
The post says: “Justyna’s lessons were always filled with smiles, fun and happiness!
“Tragically Justyna & her partner were involved in a fatal helicopter crash on the Isle of Wight yesterday.
“Our thoughts go out to Justyna’s daughters, family and friends at this awful time.
“Justyna was a wonderful coach, horse woman and lovely lady.”
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones expressed her condolences to the families and thanked the emergency services for their “swift and dedicated response”.
She said: “This is a devastating incident that has deeply shocked the local community. The families affected are being supported during this incredibly difficult time.”
A spokesman for Northumbria Helicopters said that its aircraft G-OCLV – which is listed as a Robinson R44 II helicopter – was involved in the accident during a flying lesson.
