Popular Isles of Scilly Chef Found Dead After Failing to Report for Work
An inquest has revealed that a chef was discovered deceased by a friend after he did not appear for his scheduled shift. Martin Belcher, a 27-year-old originally from the Midlands, was employed on Tresco in the Isles of Scilly at the time of his passing in September of last year.
Tributes Pour In for a 'Legend' and 'Joyful Soul'
Loved ones have characterized Martin Belcher as a 'legend', with the proprietors of Tresco and the Hell Bay Hotel issuing a heartfelt statement. They expressed that he was a 'talented chef and a kind, caring and joyful soul who embraced life on the Isles of Scilly with warmth, generosity and his unforgettable smile'.
The tribute further elaborated: 'Whether in the kitchen or in the community, his presence lit up every room, and his loss is deeply felt by us all.' It was also noted that Martin possessed a lifelong affection for dogs, with his family humorously remarking he was 'a golden retriever in human form'.
Family and Community Express Shock and Grief
In a statement presented during the court proceedings, his father, John Belcher, conveyed that the death was both a shock and a surprise to family and island friends alike. Mr. Belcher stated: 'We don't understand how he found no other way round to what he did. The people on Tresco form an extraordinary community. He must have reached a very low point when he was alone. It was an impulsive decision on his part.'
He added praise for the support received: 'Every single person on the Isles of Scilly treated us with utmost respect. His friends and colleagues were warm and caring towards us.'
Inquest Details and Personal Relationships
The hearing disclosed that Martin, recognized for his adoration of dogs, occasionally consumed alcohol and used cannabis recreationally, but these factors were determined to have no influence on his death. His former partner, Frederica Ferrari, testified about their relationship, which began during his initial season on the islands while both were working on Tresco.
They had a relationship that included a visit to Italy to see Ms. Ferrari's family and joint employment at New Grimsby on Tresco and the Hell Bay Hotel on Bryher. The couple separated, reconciled, and ultimately parted ways permanently. Ms. Ferrari recounted: 'He was very hurt and emotional about it. We had [a] conversation and agreed we needed to focus on ourselves.'
She noted that immediately following the breakup, Martin experienced depression, but in the days preceding his death, he appeared happier and more cheerful, with an improved mood. Nothing in his behavior indicated to her that he would take his own life.
Coroner's Conclusion and Memorial Efforts
A police investigation on the islands confirmed no third-party involvement or suspicious circumstances surrounding Martin's death. Emma Hillson, assistant coroner for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, remarked that his death was a complete shock to family and friends, particularly given his lack of relevant mental or medical history.
Ms. Hillson described Martin as a popular and caring young man. Based on the balance of probability and a note he left, she concluded it was more likely than not that he had taken his own life intentionally, recording a conclusion of suicide.
A memorial tribute online stated: 'He is deeply treasured and will always be remembered. In his name, we are collecting for: Dogs Trust - Martin was a golden retriever in human form. He loved dogs and dogs loved him equally.'
