THAMES VALLEY Police has released a statement on behalf of the family of Richard Burgess, aged 46, who was murdered in an arson at Rowe Court in Reading on 15 December last year.
Hakeem Kigundu, aged 32, formerly of Rowe Court, Reading, was jailed for life at court today for murder, arson and GBH.
Richard’s family has released the following statement in tribute to him:
“Richard was a much-loved son, stepson, and brother. He was a caring and thoughtful person, kind and not judgemental.
“He would often give money to homeless people, begging on the street. He was prepared to go without himself, even though he had very little money to spare.
“He enjoyed simple pleasures – a pint or two in the local with his friends, a game on the PlayStation with his brother, a ride out into the countryside on his bike.
“In fact, he was very interested in the environment and the natural world, exploring much of the South Chilterns, the New Forest and the Isle of Purbeck on his bike.
“He always took time to enjoy the landscape and countryside he was passing through. He relished being outdoors, which was reflected in his work as a gardener over the years.
“Richard just wanted to live in peace and quiet, getting on with his life undisturbed. Tragically, he was denied this in a cruel and horrific way.
“He has been taken from us far too soon and will be sorely missed by all his family and friends.”
