Passionate hospitality professional whose ideas walked ‘the line of genius and madness’ - tribute to Inverness flat fire victim
Heartfelt tributes have been paid to an Inverness man who died in a devastating blaze in a flat in a city neighbourhood.
Shocked family and friends have been left reeling by the death of Andy Adams in the fire in Tomatin Road, Hilton, in the early hours of yesterday.
He was a former director of Blend Tea & Coffee Merchants, in Drummond Street, but was previously well known in the city’s hospitality sector.
One former colleague described him as a truly passionate hospitality professional whose ideas at work walked the line of genius and madness.
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Originally from Glasgow, he and Gemma Taylor, with whom he founded Blend, have a daughter, Rebecca.
News of his death has left people stunned and saddened.
They include Scott Murray, founder and chief executive of Cru Holdings, which owns various hospitality businesses.
In a moving tribute, he recalled first meeting Mr Adams who previously worked at Bar One.
“He was unashamedly off-the-wall - a characteristic desperately needed in the Inverness hospitality scene at the time,” he reflected.
“A truly passionate hospitality professional, his ideas at work walked the line of genius and madness.
“There was quite simply never a dull day when Andy was around. And no matter which side of the line the idea fell, it would invariably be successful.
“Over the years our paths diverged but we stayed in touch. A simple coffee, or beer always took me back to the first day I met him, and I was quickly reminded of the irreverent, excited energy he would always bring to the table.
“One of Inverness’s truly selfless people, his passing marks a sad day for myself and everyone who had the pleasure of being in his company over the years.
“My thoughts and condolences go out to those left behind.”
The flat was above a row of businesses, which included Utopia Cafe.
It posted on social media: “Thank you so much for your messages of support during this horrendous ordeal.
“Our sincere condolences go out to Andy and Gemma’s family and friends, and to all that knew him. Rest in peace bud.
“The last 36 hours have been horrid and shocking for all involved, and it’s difficult to find the right words to express the rollercoaster of emotions.
“We have been extremely lucky to suffer only the most minor of water damage at the cafe, however the whole building is currently being assessed by surveyors and the authorities, and it’s unknown at this stage just how long it’ll take for our unit to be deemed safe to use.
“Once we have a clearer picture of the road ahead and what that looks like, we’ll keep you updated but we’re praying to get some positive news shortly.”
Meanwhile, an online crowdfunding campaign has generated more than £1500 in it first few hours for Ewa Szabela, who it is believed works at the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness.
It has been organised by Craig Ewan, who stated: “Unfortunately Ewa's flat was destroyed in a devastating fire. Ewa has lost everything. Can we all raise some funds to support her in this time of need?”
