Tribute to Dundee firefighter who died in tragic kitesurfing accident in Fife

A heartfelt tribute was paid to a firefighter who died in a horror kitesurfing accident off the coast of Scotland.

Raymond Cheng was pronounced dead on Wednesday at the scene of the tragedy near Elijah in Fife.

Last night, many colleagues of the father of a 42-year-old posted a thin red line on their Facebook profile pages in tribute to the popular firefighter.

Raymond – whose profile photo is a stunning image of a kitesurfer about to step into the waves – is survived by his wife and young daughter.

In an official statement, Scottish Fire and Rescue Chief Martin Blunden said last night: “Firefighter Raymond Cheng was a valued friend and colleague who has served and protected communities for 15 years.

“Our hearts go out to Raymond’s family, friends and colleagues at the Kingsway East Fire Station in Dundee at this very sad and difficult time.

“Our flags will remain at half mast until sunset on Thursday, September 12, as a sign of condolences and the deepest respect.”

The drama unfolded after reports that a water sports enthusiast was seriously injured in an accident at Largo Bay on East Neuk.

Coastguard crews from Leven and Kinghorn as well as an Anstruther lifeboat rushed to the scene.

Police, paramedics and firefighters were also present, along with a trauma team and a helicopter-borne air ambulance that landed at Elie Holiday Park.

A Scottish Police spokesperson said: ‘Scottish Police can confirm that a 42-year-old man died while kitesurfing near Leven.

“Emergency services were notified of the incident shortly after 12:10 pm Wednesday.

“Unfortunately, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

“His relatives know about it.

“There are no apparent suspicious circumstances and a report will be submitted to the tax attorney in due course.”

Largo Bay is a popular spot for thrill seekers with ideal wind conditions for most water sports.

Kitesurfing is often described as an action sport that combines snowboarding, windsurfing and paragliding into one skill.

Kitesurfers harness the power of the wind with a large controllable power kite that is attached to a safety harness to be propelled across the water.

Experts can reach up to 40 mph on the water and make jumps over 20 meters high.