THE family of a one of the victims of last weeks helicopter crash has paid tribute to their “wonderful son”.

Brain Barkley’s death has left the “biggest of holes” in his family’s hearts.

He was thought of as one in a million and a young man who was achieving his goals.

The 30-year-old planned to marry and have children.

But today his family were paying tribute to the KCA Deutag employee after he was killed in the helicopter crash.

They said: “To us Brian was a wonderful son, brother and fiance and to everyone who ever met him he was considered one in a million.

“Brian would always go out of his way to help people in any way he could and on more than one occasion took in a few ‘stray’ friends.

“Everyone Brian dealt with could see his kind heart and we all knew we were blessed and all the richer for having known him.”

Mr Barkley’s family said he planned to “grow up” and get married to fiancee Anna next year.

He hoped that in a few years they would move to Anna's homeland of Denmark to raise their children.

Mr Barkley’s family said: “His life was falling into place and he was slowly getting to realise his goals.

“He was most happy while onshore playing online games, watching Liverpool FC matches, seeing friends and spending time with the woman he loved.

“Offshore was his second home where he thoroughly enjoyed his work.

"We would like to thank all those involved in the operation to bring home all our men.”

Mr Barkley’s body was expected to be returned to his home town of Ballymoney in Northern Ireland for his funeral.

His family added: “Losing Brian has left the biggest of holes in our hearts.”