Tributes paid to top wine merchant killed in skydiving accident (From Wandsworth Guardian)

Tributes paid to top wine merchant Patrick Sandeman killed in skydiving accident

11:30am Tuesday 25th September 2012 in News By Alexandra Rucki

A top wine merchant plummeted to his death after colliding with another skydiver on Saturday.

Patrick Sandeman, 53, of Putney, died following the mid-air collision 50ft above the ground in Sibson Airfield, Peterborough.

The accident took place at about 3.30pm, with paramedics pronouncing the married father of three dead at the scene.

Another 28-year-old man, who is believed to be from France, was taken to hospital with spine and leg injuries.

An investigation was launched shortly after the incident.

Mr Sandeman, who was co-partner of leading wine merchants Lea & Sandeman, was believed to be an experienced sky diver with images of him enjoying the sport online.

On September 10 he posted an image on Twitter of one of his skydives and wrote: "Been larking about with some close friends... Blue skies."

A spokesperson for East of England Ambulance NHS Trust said: "All emergency crews worked very hard together to try to save the life of one of the men involved but despite the best efforts of crews he was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

"Our sincerest condolences go out to his family and loved ones. We wish the second casualty all the best for a good recovery."

Tributes have since flooded in for Mr Sandeman from friends and people working in the wine industry.

The wine store has branches in Chelsea, Barnes and Chiswick, with Mr Sandeman being described by friends and colleagues as "a fantastic wine merchant."

Guy Woodward, editor of Decanter Magazine, wrote on Twitter: "Truly terrible news about the death of Patrick Sandeman in a tragic skydiving accident.

"A great guy and a fantastic wine merchant. He was 53."

Kate Wild, who works in the leisure industry, said: "So sad to pick up news about Patrick Sandeman's fatal skydiving accident. Brilliant wine merchant but more importantly lovely man."

Mr Sandeman leaves behind his wife Katie, as well as three children all in their 20's.

Sibson airfield is one of two bases where company UK Parachuting offers skydiving and charity jumps.

It has been operating since the 1970's and was one of the first places in the UK to offer civilian drop zones.