Bicester Motion fire: Funeral for Dave Chester who died
Describing the night of the tragedy, the company said it "simply wouldn't have occurred to him to do anything but assist the emergency services", and that Mr Chester "was predisposed to help, whatever the situation, and to the benefit of all ahead of himself".It added: "Nobody knew the site and its nooks and crannies better than Dave; perhaps nobody ever will. "It is no exaggeration to say he had a lifetime of experience inside the perimeter fence – from being one of the many youngsters that used it as their playground to an adult plying his trade with his family-run business."
In 2013 Mr Chester's company was tasked by Bicester Motion and Historic England "with uncovering and readying structures such as buried shelters and stores for further remediation work", the firm continued. Mr Chester also undertook repair work on the distinctive watch office, and the new main gates, whose "familiar sentry box, despite appearances, was built and inspired by Dave"."Before his vision was materialised there was nothing but now there is a building that looks as though it has been there forever," the statement added."Sadly, it has now also become a poignant reminder of the best friend for whom Bicester Motion could ever have hoped."
Following Mr Chester's death his family described him as "Bicester born and bred" with a "quirky sense of humour"."He was not a victim but a hero, he died the way he lived – helping others and putting them ahead of himself," the tribute added.Last month police, fire and Health and Safety Executive investigation work at the scene concluded and it was handed back to the operator.Thames Valley Police said it was still being treated as an unexplained death investigation.
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