FURTHER tributes have been paid to a New Forest world record holder killed in a helicopter crash in New Mexico.

As previously reported, Charles Burnett III and a group of friends were travelling to his ranch in the US state when their aircraft came down and burst into flames.

US investigators are trying to establish the cause of the crash, which occurred near the city of Raton on Wednesday.

Mr Burnett, 61, entered the record books in 2009 after his Hampshire-based attempt to set a new world record for the fastest steam-powered car ended in triumph.

British-born Mr Burnett was based in Texas but rented a house near Lymington.

Mr Burnett also had links with the nearby Beaulieu Estate.

Lord Montagu paid tribute in a statement: “All those who knew Charles were shocked and greatly saddened to receive the news of his death.

“Charles helped a number of local charities including the National Motor Museum Trust.

“He will be remembered for his great generosity to charities and individuals, mischievous sense of fun, wonderful parties and love of fast vehicles.

“The sadness is that he was working on a number of exciting plans for the future including another steam car.

“While his death was premature, he went in the way that he might well have chosen, at speed.”