A MAN whose father was killed is to scatter his ashes in Africa.
Kane Manning, who lives in Portslade, will be flying with his aunt, uncle and stepsister to Angola where his father spent a lot of his time working as a bomb disposal expert for the Mines Advisory Group (MAG).
Mark Manning, who bought and sold cars, was bludgeoned to death on April 19, 2014, by a friend over a debt.
Colin Gale, of Worthing, killed Mr Manning at the P&B Sales garage in Western Road, Lancing.
Gale was jailed for 15 years for manslaughter after a trial at Lewes Crown Court in March 2017.
Kane Manning, of Portslade, said it was one of his father’s greatest wishes to have his ashes scattered in Angola.
The 21-year-old added: “This would mean a lot to the family and my dad.
“He worked as a bomb disposal expert for the MAG for 21 years.
“He had travelled to many countries, including Syria.
“But he spent a lot of his time working in Angola to help make the country safe.
“Dad had a very dangerous job.
“But he was very passionate about saving people, and to make the world a better place.
“He was passionate about his job.
“He worked with Princess Diana and I also have a picture of him shaking hands with former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher.
“We will be spreading Dad’s ashes on September 10 at a lake in Kuito.
“Dad had always said he would want to have his ashes scattered at a place where he had worked.
“He had inspired me to become a better person.”
Mark Manning was 54 when he was killed. Family and friends hailed him as a hero, and described him as a happy, loyal and brave man.
He enjoyed fishing, playing golf, karting and travelling with his son to Thailand.
Gale, from Worthing, was found guilty of manslaughter through loss of control but cleared of murder.
He was sentenced to 15 years and eight months.
Stewart Robinson was found guilty of preventing the lawful burial of a corpse – he was with Gale when Mr Manning’s body was buried.
He was sentenced to four years.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here