Kayaker killed by lightning strike in Essex

Updated
Kayaker killed by lightning strike in Essex
Kayaker killed by lightning strike in Essex

Stock photo, Bradwell-on-Sea: Rex


A kayaker has been killed by a lightning strike while kayaking alone in Bradwell-on-Sea, Essex.

Keith Kirkum, 59, described as a "spiritualist" and a "gentleman", took his kayak out on Monday, but a gale hit the area without warning and he was struck during the storm.

According to The Maldon and Burnham Standard, a coroner said he suffered a heart attack from the lightning strike, and did not drown.

A dog walker found his body the next day on Bradwell beach, and his clothing was burnt.

Charlotte Kelly, 61, his partner of 25 years, described the tragedy as a "devastating loss".

According to the Daily Mail, she said: "This was such an unusual way to die, I just couldn't believe it. I'm numb.

"He believed in the bigger picture – Mother Nature and the great beyond. I suppose you could say there is a sad irony in the way he died.

"To me, he was one of life's good things. He was my friend and I will miss him every day. I will miss his presence around me and how calm he was."

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