Tributes pour in last night for an Irish skier who died in a horror avalanche in the Swiss Alps.
Snowsports instructor Matthew Francis, 29, had been living in Verbier in Switzerland for a number of years.
The Irish citizen from London was described as a “bright star” by grieving friends on Thursday.
Heavy snowfall led to a number of avalanches last weekend and into Monday, with eight people dying over a four-day period.
Matthew lost his life after the incident in the Gentianes area, on a popular off piste run known locally as “Highway”. Three skiers were on the slope when it broke away and he was carried off and buried by the snow.
Despite the best efforts of emergency services and fellow skiers, he later passed away in Sion Hospital.
Fellow instructors at the local ski school are said to be distraught, while the public prosecutor has opened an investigation.
Pals have been quick to pay tribute to Matthew, who was also a talented musician and performed regularly in Verbier.
One said: “Dear Matt...The amount of times...The sheer amount of times...I made fun of you for introducing yourself as ‘Irish’ despite having the world’s
heaviest Clapham accent. Yet somehow, you’ve managed to have the last laugh and make the news as ‘Irishman, 29’.
“Matthew Francis Waldron Barnaville (actual name), I’ll live my life a little more like you did each and every day from now on. Rest in perfection.”
Another said: “The light you brought to my life and everyone we know is immeasurable. I will miss you every day Matt. Rest in peace my love.”
And a musician said: “Our mate Matt.
at home in the mountains, sending it right till the very end.”
