Tributes paid to man who died in Dixon's Chimney tragedy
30 October 2019, 17:58
The family of a man who died after becoming trapped at the top of a 270-foot chimney have paid tribute to the "strong" and "brave" grandfather.
The family of Robert Philip Longcake, known as Phil, have said that he had been "battling with his mental health" prior to the incident.
In a statement, his family said: "Phil was a strong, brave man who achieved a lot in his short life.
"Sadly, due to recent disclosures he made about historic trauma he suffered, Phil was battling with his mental health, with the love and support of his family and health professionals whilst trying to overcome this.
They continued: "He was a keen motorcyclist and would often spend weekends away with his son, Robert.
"He loved fell walking with his dog Ted and was a passionate musician who played the guitar, piano and accordion.
"He also loved to sing, and did his own covers of popular music.
The family also paid tribute to him as a "fantastic granddad to his three grandchildren, James, George and William. They adored him.
"Phil had many wonderful and happy times with his family, and these memories will be treasured by his loved ones."
Emergency services were called to the Dixon's Chimney in Carlisle at 2.22am on Monday in response to reports that a man was trapped inside.
Mr Longcake was pronounced dead at the scene 15 hours later after a specialist team used ropes and a cherry picker to get him down.
His family said he would be much missed by his wife Andrea, children Robert and Laura and other family and friends.
They have asked for people to make donations to mental health charity Mind in his memory.
