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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Chris Slater

First picture of dad who died on Dixon's chimney as family pay emotional tribute

The family of a grandfather who died after dangling from a chimney for over 15 hours in Carlisle have paid an emotional tribute to him.

He has been named for the first time as dad-of-two Robert Philip Longcake, known as Phil to his friends and family.

In a statement released via Cumbria Police, his family said: "Phil was a strong, brave man who achieved a lot in his short life.

"Sadly, due to recent disclosures he made about historic trauma he suffered, Phil was battling with his mental health, with the love and support of his family and health professionals whilst trying to overcome this.

"He was a keen motorcyclist and would often spend weekends away with his son, Robert.

"He loved fell walking with his dog Ted and was a passionate musician who played the guitar, piano and accordion. He also loved to sing, and did his own covers of popular music.

"Phil was a fantastic granddad to his three grandchildren, James, George and William. They adored him.

Firefighters used a cherry picker to rescue Mr Longcake from the top of the 290ft structure (PA)

"Phil had many wonderful and happy times with his family, and these memories will be treasured by his loved ones.

"Phil will be very much missed by his wife Andrea, his two children Robert and Laura and their partners Sarah and Darren, grandchildren James, George and William, dad Bill and brother John, and all his friends and those that knew him."

They said funeral arrangements are to be confirmed and are by invitation only.

They have asked for no floral tributes but asked people to instead make a donation to the mental health charity Mind .

Mr Longcake was on Monday.

Police were first alerted at about 2.20am amid reports that shouts and wailing could be heard.

Carlisle City council said he had climbed temporary ladders erected as part of maintenance work inside a walled and gated compound.

His left leg was said to trapped between brickwork and a ladder leaving him hanging upside down.

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A coastguard helicopter was drafted in as part of the complex operation but attempts to rescue him using the chopper were abandoned over safety fears.

After a police appeal a giant cherry picker big enough to reach the top of the 290 foot tall structure, attached to an old mill, arrived from 100 miles away in Glasgow.

He eventually became unresponsive.

He was brought down by specialist firefighters at 4:45pm and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The fire chief who led the operation said it was the most complex of his 25-year career.

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