Skydiving is set to return to Dunkeswell Aerodrome with the launch of a new operation, Skydive South West. This new venture emerges at the same location where a tragic accident earlier this year claimed the lives of a mother and her instructor, Adam Harrison and Belinda Taylor, following a parachute malfunction during a tandem jump.
Skydive Buzz Ltd, the previous operator, went into compulsory liquidation shortly after the accident. Now, former staff members of Skydive Buzz have united to form Skydive South West, a company completely independent from the former business and its owners.
In a public statement, founders Joseph and Alex emphasized that the new company is starting fresh with no ties to the past. They expressed their commitment to the sport, the aerodrome, and the local community. They acknowledged the difficulties faced by customers with existing Skydive Buzz bookings but explained that Skydive South West is unable to honor those due to financial constraints.
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“We chose to come together because we care about this place and the community that surrounds it,” the statement reads. “With support from the airfield owner and the community, we are proud to reopen the skies for jumping. We hope to welcome past skydivers and newcomers alike to be part of this new chapter.”
Joseph and Alex also conveyed their hopes to resume operations soon, with a website and booking system in place. They invited the public to meet the team and experience the thrill of skydiving in a safe and professional environment.
The tragic incident on June 13, which resulted in the deaths of 30-year-old instructor Adam Harrison from Bournemouth and 48-year-old Belinda Taylor from Totnes, remains under investigation with an inquest pending. Families and authorities continue seeking answers about the circumstances.
At the time of its closure, Skydive Buzz released a message expressing regret over ceasing operations and informing customers and creditors about the compulsory liquidation process. They thanked their staff and supporters for their years of involvement but stated they had no option but to close.
Skydive South West’s launch represents a careful but hopeful new beginning for skydiving enthusiasts at Dunkeswell Aerodrome, dedicated to safety, community, and the spirit of adventure.