TRIBUTES have been paid to a Swindon man who fell 30ft to his death from an industrial unit’s roof.

Father-of-four John Wheeler, of Cheney Manor Road, fell from the building, which is owned by Powell McNeil Machinery Co Ltd, at Hawksworth Industrial Estate.

The 61-year-old, who has three grandchildren, landed on the concrete floor at the site in Newcome Drive.

As a result of his injuries, suffered at around 11am on Monday, Mr Wheeler was certified dead later that morning.

Now his family have paid tribute to a loving and outgoing father who they described as a very active and social man.

“John Wheeler was a loving husband, father and grandfather,” a family statement read.

“He was well respected in his working community and never had a bad word to say about anyone.

“John was an avid Manchester United fan who visited Old Trafford as often as possible.

“He played golf and was a very active person.

“He will be deeply missed by all his friends and family. Rest in peace John.”

A positive identification has taken place and a post-mortem examination, to establish the exact cause of death, took place yesterday morning.

A family liaison officer has been appointed to support the family of Mr Wheeler during this time.

Jan Bardwell, the investigating environmental health officer for Swindon Council, said: “In Swindon we are responsible for approximately 3,800 premises.

“When an accident is reported to us we have a duty to carry out an investigation.

“We will be working with the local police to establish the circumstances surrounding this death.”

Mr Wheeler was carrying out work at Powell McNeil Machinery, a company with more than 30 years’ experience in providing high quality used sheet metal working machinery. It supplies the UK market and worldwide.

The family have asked to be left alone to grieve and come to terms with their loss.

If you would like to leave your tributes, please call the newsroom on 01793 501798 or visit www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk.