Family pays tribute to West Kirby man found dead at North Wales beauty spot

Feb 13 2013 by Helen Hunt, Heswall News

THE devastated family of a Wirral man who is thought to have fallen from a cliff to his death paid tribute to him.

The body of Steve Masters, 49, from West Kirby, was found at the Great Orme beauty spot in North Wales last week.

His family said he was a keen photographer and believe he was out taking pictures when he slipped down the cliff face.

His mum Maureen said she was left “heartbroken” while his girlfriend of three-and-half years, Shirley Kay, 46, said she had lost her best friend.

Steve, who lived in Banks Road, was last seen by his family on Friday February 1 and was found by the police the following Tuesday.

Shirley, 46, said: “He was the greatest love of my life.

“He was my best friend. He would go to Great Orme and take pictures. He loved taking pictures of views and mountains.

“I was with Steve for three-and-a-half years. He was loving, very gentle and very kind. He was fun and intelligent.

“He was so many things. We spent all of our spare time together and we loved to go outdoors walking and hiking and going for romantic dinners.”

Steve grew up in Wirral but later worked in London before moving back to the area. He played the drums and was in many bands.

Shirley, whom he met after returning to Wirral, said he had an “warm energy” which instantly made people feel comfortable.

Steve, a Liverpool FC supporter, was a digital marketer and was a former employee of Trinity Mirror, working for the Liverpool Echo’s commercial and digital operation.

His mum Maureen added: “He was an amazing person and was well loved by everybody. I am heartbroken.”

Steve grew up in Tranmere and went to Wirral Grammar School. He leaves behind his parents Maureen and William and brother Roger.

Mrs Masters added: “I could not have wished for a nicer son. We are devastated.

“It was a tragic accident.

“We think he parked up on the Orme, it was a beautiful day and he has seen a view. We think he slipped and down he went.”

A North Wales Police spokesman said Steve’s death was not being treated as suspicious.

An inquest into his death was opened and adjourned. A post mortem revealed he died from multiple injuries.

A funeral service will take place at Grange United Reformed Church in Kings Road, Higher Bebington, at 1pm today (Wednesday).