These are the first images of a skydiving center owner accused of murdering his partner and fellow coach Clair Armstrong.
Ashley ‘Ash’ Kemp, 54, the manager of the Hibaldstow Skydiving Centre, appeared in Grimsby Magistrates’ Court today charged with the murder of the 50-year-old mother at her Messingham home.
Clair died after Humberside Police responded to a’safety concern’ in the early hours of Sunday.
Kemp’s next appearance will be at Hull Crown Court. Since her death, a scene guard has been stationed outside the Elm Way property, where floral tributes have also begun to appear.
Clair and Kemp both worked at Hibaldstow Skydiving Centre, where he is the manager.
In an article for skydivemag.com, he says, ‘I can fly the jump plane, take tandems, instruct AFF, dispatch Static line, FS Coach, DZ Control, manifest, reception, clean the toilets, and drive buses.’ As manager of Skydive Hibaldstow, one of the largest DZs (drop zones) in the UK, I enjoy working in any capacity.’
Clair was a formation skydiving coach, which involves multiple skydivers connecting with one another by grabbing onto various limbs to form a variety of shapes. Olivers of Messingham, a popular local beauticians, was also owned by her.
One woman said: ‘I’ve been born and bred in Messingham and I would never have expected anything like this to ever happen here.’
A neighbour said: ‘Police were here on Sunday asking us questions about whether we know anything or if we’d heard anything.
‘I remember driving past and being quite shocked by the police being here though, it’s a really quiet area.’ Another added: ‘This is no longer the estate it used to be.’
Meanwhile, one neighbour who knew Clair added: ‘She was really friendly and a nice person. We often said hello to one another when walking the dogs and what not. I just can’t believe it’s happened right on my doorstep, it’s scary. I’m just glad we’re not in any danger.’
Clair’s family is being supported by specialist officers, Humberside Police said.
Police confirmed a cordon will remain in place at the property for a number of days while detectives continue with their investigation.
Clair’s family have been informed of her death and are being supported by specialist officers.
‘We understand that a tragic incident of this nature will cause shock to the local community, but I would like to reassure people that this is an isolated incident between individuals known to each other with no wider risk to members of the public,’ said Detective Chief Inspector Simon Vickers in a message to the public.
‘Those living in the area can expect to see a number of officers over the coming days whilst a scene guard remains in place, and we continue with our investigation.
‘I would encourage anyone with information, or anyone with concerns, to please come and speak to us.’
Those with information are urged to call 101 quoting log 25 of Sunday, November 6.
Alternatively, call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, to leave information anonymously.
source:nsemwokrom.com
