THE family and friends of a pilot killed in a plane crash on Good Friday have spoken of their grief. David Boon, 47, of Chepstow Close in Stevenage, had been flying a light aircraft from Panshanger Aerodrome to Jersey when the plane crashed into woodland

THE family and friends of a pilot killed in a plane crash on Good Friday have spoken of their grief.

David Boon, 47, of Chepstow Close in Stevenage, had been flying a light aircraft from Panshanger Aerodrome to Jersey when the plane crashed into woodland at Steep, near Petersfield in Hampshire.

Passenger Carol Ann Potter, 49, from Peterborough, was also killed when the four-seater plane came down in poor weather conditions.

Mr Boon's brother, Ken, said: "I have lost a beloved brother and friend.

"I am missing him dearly."

Mr Boon was born on May 8, 1961 and was the middle son of Betty and Sid.

At 15, his love of music inspired him to teach himself to play guitar. Shortly afterwards, he formed his first band.

Several bands and many years later, he is best remembered for being the lead guitarist of the well-known local rock band, Hardware.

Mr Boon married Sharon, his wife of 24 years, in September 1984. They have three children - Faye 23, Ross 21 and Craig 17.

In a tribute issued by Mr Boon's family, it says he was "immensely proud" of his children.

During the busy years of raising a family, the opportunity arose for Mr Boon to make a career change from mechanic to plasterer and he later established his own successful plastering company.

Speaking about Mr Boon's passion for flying, his family's tribute says: "In 2005, after a trial flying lesson, Dave was hooked. His dedication and hard work paid off when he was rewarded with his private pilot's licence two years later.

"Then it literally was the sky's the limit. It became his new passion and sadly cost him his life.

"Dave will be very deeply missed by his family, friends and all who know him."

Mr Boon was a member of the Tuesday Club, as it is affectionately known, at The Red Lion on Stevenage High Street.

Pauline Rose, a member of the music appreciation club, went up in Mr Boon's plane with him just before Christmas.

Speaking on behalf of some of the members of the Tuesday Club, she said: "He was brilliant at playing the guitar and loved all music. He enjoyed playing with his band, Hardware, at The Red Lion.

"His other passion was flying and he was popular at Panshanger. He was popular everywhere.

"He was very funny, warm, witty and intelligent. He was a very genuine person and was always there for anyone who needed him. He was considered a best mate to a lot of people.

"He's left a huge hole and we will miss him."

The cause of the crash has yet to be ascertained. An investigation is being conducted by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch.