Ben Hardy, a hard-working chef who was always at his happiest in the kitchen, died after a homeboat fire at The Anchor Inn in Wyre Piddle on Christmas Day.
His family described the 37-year-old as a man who “travelled the country working his dream career” and a lover of music, the coast and cooking.
READ MORE: City pub closes as long-serving owners bid farewell after 18 years
Mr Hardy had been staying in Worcestershire over the festive period when police were called to the pub on Main Road at 7.32am.
He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Since the incident, Mr Hardy’s family have set up a GoFundMe to help pay for funeral and wake expenses.
His sister, Kirstie Hardy, said: “I’ve been asked by my mum to set up this fundraiser to help with the costs of funeral and wake expenses for my brother.
READ MORE: Man drops three clothes sizes so he can ‘live to see his grandchildren grow up’
“Ben was working in Worcestershire just for the festive/new year period and tragically lost his life early Christmas Day morning when a fire broke out on the houseboat he was staying on as accommodation.
“My mum devastatingly received a visit from the police later on Christmas Day to inform her.
“I can’t put into words how devastated we all are.
“Ben leaves behind our mum, stepdad, nieces, nephews, great-nephews.
READ MORE: Former city centre retail store still listed for sale – here’s for how much
“We are hoping to raise funds for Ben’s funeral and wake.
The incident happened at The Anchor Inn on Christmas Day (Image: Newsquest) “Being so footloose and fancy-free, Ben, at only 37, had never thought about putting things in place.”
To see the GoFundMe, click here.
Since the incident on Christmas Day, the manager at The Anchor Inn has decided to step down.
Toni, who did not want to provide his last name, said the tragedy has left him unable to carry on with the business.
He said: “The tragedy on Christmas Day left me unable to continue the business.
“Someone has lost their life.
“For the last nine months of being part of this incredible journey, the time has come for me to move on to new opportunities.
“It has been an honour to contribute to Wyre Piddle and The Anchor Inn and to be part of such a talented and passionate community.
“I will truly miss the connections and memories I have made here.”
Mr Hardy’s death is being treated as unexplained, with early indications being that it was not suspicious.