British Skydiver Dies In French Alps Jump As Parachute Fails To Open

The girlfriend of a British skydiver who died when his parachute failed to open during a base jump has paid tribute to "the most incredible human being I ever met".

David Reader, 25, was base jumping near Sallanches near Mount Blanc in the French Alps on 7 August when his parachute failed to open.

Mr Reader, from Newnham in Gloucestershire, suffered a severe head injury and multiple injuries to his body.

He died at a hospital in nearby Annecy on 8 August.

Writing on Facebook, his girlfriend Domi Kiger described Mr Reader as a "kind, humble (and) gentle" man.

"He was quiet and reserved but so warm, loving and fun to those who took the time to get to know him. He was wise beyond his years," she wrote.

"He was ambitious in a good way, wanting to make a difference in the flying industry, and make the world a better place. I know he would have.

"It took us a bit of time to find our place in each other's life but we were on our way to such an amazing life together. We felt like we found each other's match, brain, body and soul.

"The same appetite for life, the same curiosity and ambition to always better ourselves, to constantly learn, grow and explore together.

"We loved each other very deeply and had become really good at saying and showing it to each other."

Mr Reader's brother Dickon added: "I haven't just lost a brother. I have lost a role model who I looked up to to lead the way.

"He was always so ambitious, wanted to better himself and find ways of improving and pushing the boundaries.

"He wanted to and did enhance the lives of everyone around him. He always believed in me, supported me and will leave a huge gap in my life. Rest in peace, you will never be forgotten."