TRIBUTES have been paid to a Caldicot father of two who was killed in a steelworks explosion.

Mark Sim, 41, from Caldicot, was one of the two workers unaccounted for after the blast in Celsa Steel UK’s plant in Cardiff on Wednesday (18th November).

After South Wales Police confirmed the identity of Mr Sim along with 51 year-old Peter O’Brien from Cardiff as the victims of the incident, members of Caldicot Town AFC, who Mr Sim coached for, have paid tribute to the under 14 coach.

Club secretary Steve Bright wrote online: “The club has learnt today of the devastating news that Mark Sim has died in the recent accident in the Celsa Steelworks.

“On behalf of the club, our deepest sympathy and condolences go out to his family, including his wife Sam, son Jackson and their daughter.

“Mark was a coach / parent greatly involved with our under 14 side, and has played darts for the club.”

Superintendent Stephen Jones, from South Wales Police, said: “Our focus continues to be on the recovery of the bodies, supporting the families and finding out what caused this explosion to happen.

“We are working closely on site with the Health and Safety Executive, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, and Natural Resources Wales.

“Our thoughts are with the families, friends and colleagues of Mr Sim and Mr O’Brien at this very difficult time.”

South Wales Police say they are working with the Health and Safety Executive, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, and Natural Resources Wales to make the scene safe and recover two bodies from the site.

Celsa’s managing director Luis Sanz made a statement yesterday where he said: “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families and loved ones of those who passed away and were injured.”

“Our Celsa family will grieve together and support each other in the days, weeks and months ahead. We are all incredible grateful for to the local community for their support and solidarity at such a difficult time.

“We thank the emergency services for their excellent response when we needed their help and we are working very closely with the relevant authorities to determine the exact cause of the incident. We will not rest until this is established.

“In memory of our colleagues, we will strive tirelessly to avoid another day like yesterday. Safety is always our absolute priority.”

Five men were injured in the explosion. Of these, one was treated and discharged at scene and four were taken to the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff. Two of these patients were discharged yesterday, one was discharged this morning and the fourth man remains in hospital.