Tributes paid to 'talented handyman' who died in cigarette flat fire

Tributes have been paid to a "multi-talented" man who died in a flat fire caused by a cigarette.

David Sayer was killed in the blaze which engulfed his home on Cook Street in Whiston at the start of January.

The 54-year-old was found in the lounge. It was later ruled that the fire on that Sunday afternoon had been started by smoker's materials.

Today, friends paid tribute to Mr Sayer who they said could "turn his hand to anything" and was "calm and placid".

One pal, Geoff Partington, told the ECHO: "I spoke to David 15 hours before this happened and he said he was appreciative we were friends.

"He was a multi-talented handyman.

Floral tribute left at fatal fire on Cook Street,Whiston.(Pic Andrew Teebay). (Andrew Teebay/Liverpool Echo)

Cook Street, Whiston. Photograph Geoff Davies (Geoff Davies)

"It's just so tragic that he's gone.

"Two days before he died, I was with him.

"I can't believe it."

Flowers have been left outside the flat, with one bouquet bearing the message: "Rest in peace, David, we will never forget you."

The windows of the flat, where Mr Sayer lived alone, were boarded up.

Firefighters carried him outside and performed CPR but he died later in hospital.

Scene of fatal fire at flat on Cook Street,Whiston.(Pic Andrew Teebay). (Andrew Teebay/Liverpool Echo)

Floral tribute left at fatal fire on Cook Street,Whiston.(Pic Andrew Teebay). (Andrew Teebay/Liverpool Echo)

The case as been referred to the coroner's office in Bootle, but an inquest is yet to be opened..

Mark Thomas, Group Manager for Prevention, said the tragic incident "showed the very real dangers smoking poses."

He added: "On initial investigation it appears that the incident was the result of an accidental fire caused by smoker’s materials.

Find your nearest vaccination centre by using your postcode below:

"Smoking remains the biggest killer in accidental fires in the home nationally.

"This tragic incident shows the very real dangers smoking poses and we would urge those who do smoke to do so safely.

"Never smoke in bed and take extra care when you’re tired - it’s very easy to fall asleep while your cigarette is still burning and it could easily set furniture alight.

"Please do not smoke when under the influence of alcohol or drugs and remember, make sure your cigarette is fully extinguished - put it out, right out."

Crews have been carrying out a reassurance campaign in the Whiston area in the weeks after the tragedy.