Skydive Buzz Ltd, a skydiving company operating just over the Somerset border in Devon, has announced its immediate closure, more than a month after a fatal tandem skydive accident claimed the lives of two people.
Based at Dunkeswell Airfield near Honiton, Devon, Skydive Buzz has ceased trading and is set to enter compulsory liquidation, informing customers via email after weeks of unanswered calls and cancelled bookings.
The tragedy occurred on Friday, June 13, when tandem jump participant Belinda Taylor and instructor Adam Harrison tragically died after their parachutes failed to deploy during the jump. Both lost their lives after falling into a field near the airfield. The British Skydiving Board is currently conducting an inquiry into the incident.
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In a statement sent to customers on July 24, the company expressed regret over the difficult decision to cease operations immediately. The letter emphasized that the closure is due solely to financial pressures, with liquidation steps to follow. The message also noted the emotional impact of the accident on staff.
Skydive Buzz advised customers holding vouchers to contact the respective voucher issuers—such as Virgin, Red Letter Days, or Into the Blue—for potential refunds. Additionally, those who paid by credit card might qualify for refunds under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, while debit card payments could be eligible for chargebacks through banks, subject to specific conditions.
The letter concluded with thanks to staff, customers, and everyone associated with the company over the years, coupled with an apology that liquidation was the only viable option left.
Inquests into the deaths of 48-year-old Belinda, from Totnes, and 30-year-old Adam, from Bournemouth, Dorset, remain ongoing. Belinda, an adrenaline enthusiast who had never before skydived, was gifted the tandem jump as a thank-you present by her partner Scott Armstrong. Scott shared his heartbreak, explaining that the gift was a gesture of gratitude after Belinda welcomed his nine-year-old son into their home.