Richard Ayling was described as a ‘proud and devoted dad’ who ‘dedicated himself to serving and protecting others’
20:23, 11 May 2026Updated 20:25, 11 May 2026
Richard Ayling died after falling from the rooftop bar at Henman and Cooper
A man who fell to his death from a rooftop bar in Birmingham was a much-loved husband and dad married for less than a year.
Richard Ayling, aged 40 and from Swadlincote in Derbyshire, was fatally injured in the tragedy at Henman and Cooper on Colmore Row on Sunday, May 3. He died at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital the next day.
READ MORE: All the UK towns facing snow on Wednesday named by Met Office
Get breaking news on BirminghamLive WhatsApp , click the link to join
An inquest into Mr Ayling’s death was opened and adjourned at Birmingham Coroner’s Court today, Monday May 11. He worked in the rail industry and was a part-time firefighter and former soldier.
A fundraising page launched to support his family had raised more than £14,600.
Pictures posted on Facebook by his wife Amy showed the couple marrying in Barbados last November. She wrote on the site yesterday: “A week ago today, my whole world changed forever.
“Every second without you feels heavy, and the pain still feels just as raw.
“I miss you hubby… more than words could ever explain.”
Another online tribute described Mr Ayling as a “top bloke and outstanding soldier”. It said he had recently married and retired from the fire service.
Duncan Watson, who set up the gofundme page, wrote: “His loss has left a hole in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Mr Watson continued: “He was a proud and devoted dad, and his love for his family was at the centre of everything he did.
“Beyond his family, Richard dedicated himself to serving and protecting others.
“With over 20 years of experience in the rail industry, he was a trusted and respected professional – and as a part-time firefighter, he gave his time and courage to keep his community safe.
“He was the kind of person who showed up for others, whether on the job or in everyday life.
“He was only 40. Far, far too young.”