TRIBUTES have poured in to Kippa Matthews, one of York’s most talented and respected photographers, after he died suddenly.

The 54-year-old worked in the city for about 35 years, taking photographs at locations including York Minster, the National Railway Museum, the Jorvik Viking Centre and Bishopthorpe Palace, and covering many of York's biggest news stories and cultural events.

His partner Haley Capon said it was believed he had been stung by a wasp on Thursday and tests were being carried out to ascertain if this had caused his death. 

She said she would miss him terribly, adding: “He was my soulmate.”
The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu,said he was ‘much saddened’ by the news and p rayed for Kippa’s family ‘at this time of grief and shock.’

He said: “Kippa’s photographs have helped to reflect back and tell the story of our common life here in York and in North Yorkshire. 

“His professionalism, good humour and enthusiasm for his work have endeared him to many, and he will be greatly missed.

“He took great pride in his work, and was very reliable.” 

David Scott, head of marketing for the Jorvik Group, said: “Kippa’s pictures have transported York’s Vikings around the world.

“He had a fantastic eye for a shot and has taken some of the best photos of our interpreters, events and festivals over the years. He will be much missed, but his images will be around for a long time to come.”

A National Railway Museum spokeswoman said: “He has played a vital part in the history of our organisation by recording many of the big moments.

“From big engines bathed in colour for Locos in a Different Light, to 2012’s Railfest extravaganza, to our Great Gathering of Mallard and sisters to mark the 75th anniversary of Mallard breaking the world steam speed record, his legacy are these and many other amazing sights preserved for posterity.”

Martin Oates, former chief photographer and picture editor at The Press, said: “He was a very talented and respected photographer - respected locally and nationally - and a really nice and amiable lad, very pleasant.”

Photographer Kate Mallender, who got to know Kippa in the late 1980s when he worked for John Pick’s Press Agency in York, where she worked as office manager, and he had remained a ‘very dear friend.’

She said: “He was lovely, jolly, happy and good fun. He was very talented - not just a news photographer but also an artist.

“I’m devastated. I cannot believe it - it doesn’t seem real. He was such a vibrant person.”

Jon Hill, a long-standing friend of Kippa and fellow journalist, said: “He was such a talented photographer but perhaps more importantly than that, he was a great bloke. Those who worked with him would always relish the twinkle in his eye.”

Sharon Atkinson, spokeswoman for York Minster, which employed Kippa on many occasions to take pictures, said: “This is very sad news. Kippa will be remembered by many here at York Minster. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”