Serving Scots airman dies while scuba diving in quarry

A YOUNG Scottish airman has died in a scuba diving accident while stationed at a frontline base in England.

• Calum Robertson posted to Norfolk after closure of RAF’s Moray base

• Aircraftsman praised for his “warmth and sincerity”

Senior Aircraftsman Calum Robertson, 23, who was originally from Banffshire, died on Sunday while diving at Stoney Cove, a flooded quarry in Leicestershire which is regularly used by scuba divers.

Two other divers were taken to hospital following the diving incident.

Mr Robertson was posted to RAF Marham in Norfolk in October last year following the closure of the Moray air base at RAF Kinloss. He worked as part of the engineering flight with IX(B) Squadron. He had been serving with the RAF since 2009.

A spokeswoman for RAF Marham paid tribute to the young serviceman.

She said: “It is with great sadness that we must confirm the death of Senior Aircraftsman Calum Robertson, who died in a tragic accident. Calum was a quiet and unassuming character possessing warmth and sincerity that was felt by all those who came into contact with him.”

The spokeswoman continued: “He was an exceedingly popular airman, who always maintained a positive and highly focused outlook to life.

“His positivity was evident not only in a professional capacity as a tradesman interacting with engineering staff and aircrew, but with others through his passion for sub aqua diving and socialising with his friends and colleagues.”

Mr Robertson’s father Hamish lives in New Byth, near Turriff. He also leaves behind two brothers, Struan and Andrew.

A service of thanksgiving will be held at Moray Crematorium in Buckie on Friday.

An inquest into Mr Robertson’s tragic death has been opened and adjourned by the Leicester City and South Leicestershire Coroner’s Service.