A COUNCIL officer has died and his wife is seriously ill after an apparent camping tragedy.

Chris and Jane Bainbridge, from Darlington, were on a short break in the Lake District at the weekend when the incident took place.

Mr Bainbridge, 45, was a management information officer, based in the performance and improvement team at Darlington Borough Council.

Mrs Bainbridge is in a serious condition in hospital. It is not yet clear what happened to the couple.

Friends and neighbours last night paid tribute to the pair, who live in the Whinfield Road area of Darlington.

Pam Stott told how she waved them off on trip on Friday, adding that they seemed “happy and smiling”.

The couple told her they were spending the weekend staying in a wooden camping pod in the Pooley Bridge area, near Ullswater, and would return on Sunday.

Mrs Stott said they were regular campers who usually stayed in a tent.

She said: “You could not ask for better friends and neighbours.

“We are so shocked and cannot believe what has happened.”

Gordon and Deborah Peacock also knew the couple well. Mr Peacock said: “We are not really sure what happened.

It seems to be just a tragic accident.”

His wife said: “They were just such a lovely couple.”

Darlington council officers were yesterday told of the death of Mr Bainbridge, who worked for the authority for 27 years.

Murray Rose, director of people, told staff: “Chris was holidaying with his wife in the Lake District at the time of his death. His wife is also seriously ill in hospital.

“At this time, further details of his death are still to be confirmed.

“Chris was a terrific colleague who had settled well into his new role within the team. He will be missed by friends and colleagues.

“Our thoughts and condolences are being sent to his family at this sad time. We will provide details of any arrangements in relation to his funeral as they become available.”

Mrs Bainbridge previously worked for the authority, although now works elsewhere.

It is understood the couple do not have children.

Police were unable to confirm details of the incident last night.