A TRAGIC chopper pilot told a Scots B&B owner he would return with his family just hours before dying in a crash.
Brian Bridgman, from Canterbury, Kent, landed his helicopter at a farm in West Lothian and stayed there on Monday night.
The 58-year-old and his passenger departed in “good spirits” the following morning but died when the Bell Jet Ranger crashed in East Yorkshire.
Robert Warnock, owner of Bank Head Farm B&B in Dechmont, said yesterday (fri): “They both stayed with us for a few days and enjoyed themselves.
“Brian was planning on bringing some of his family up.”
He added: “They were both good guys. Everything seemed fine with the helicopter when they left.”
“We got to know them quite well. We’re absolutely gutted.”
The chopper left Dechmont for Humberside Airport but crashed into the sea off Flamborough Head.
Witness Chris Palmer reported hearing a “crack” before watching the helicopter plummet into the sea below sheer 250ft cliffs.
Passenger John Kent, 50, of Romford, Essex, also died in the accident.
An investigation into the crash, which took place around 1:30pm, is being led by the Air Accident Investigation Branch (AAIB).
Mr Bridgman’s son, Tim, released a statement yesterday (Fri) on behalf of himself and his 31-year-old sister Katie.
He said: “Dad was always great company, and had a massive circle of friends. He will be hugely missed by everyone he knew, and all those whose lives he touched.
“My sister and I could not be more proud of our father.”
Katie Bridgman commented on a picture of her father on Facebook: “He will always be the most incredibly special Daddy and man this world was blessed with. We love you so very much Daddy.”
