Top Lego boss dies in horror skiing fall as tributes pour in for close pal of Royals

An “inspirational” Lego boss has tragically died after taking a heavy fall while skiing with many tributes for the close friend of the Danish . Michael Halbye, 64, was airlifted tobut was pronounced dead shortly after from internal bleeding at a popular Swiss mountain range.

The accident took place in the canton of Valais in Verbier where Mr Halbye, from was reportedly going down a slope at speed. He is believed to have lost his balance and started to fall down the steep descent in the Col de Chassoure part of the Verbier ski resort.

Doctors said he died from internal bleeding on Saturday. Mr Halbye was the vice chairman of Danish brand Kirkbi, an investment company that owns a majority stake in the Lego family.

READ MORE:

READ MORE:

His death was announced by chairman of Kirkbi, Thomas Kirk Kristiansen who in tribute said Mr Halbye "left a great and positive impression on those around him". He said: "It is with great sadness that we received the news of Michael's sudden passing.

"Our thoughts and care go to Michael's family and loved ones, who are now faced with having to process the unexpected loss of a man who, in all facets of life, has left a great and positive impression on those around him.

"We will miss Michael as Vice Chairman but first and foremost as a person. May his memory be honoured."

Mr Halbye close connections to the Danish saw him work with Queen Mary on her "Mary Foundation". This organisation aims to stamp out serious social issues such as loneliness and domestic violence as well as promoting positive mental health.

The Queen, 53, described him as a valued colleague and a loyal friend. Mr Halbye was also said to have shared a close connection to King Frederik, according to Danish newspaper Berlingske.

"Michael Halbye was a man who possessed a rare positive energy, extensive knowledge and a strong commitment to making a difference for those outside the community. He was also my friend, and he will be missed by many. My thoughts go out to his family and close friends," stated Queen Mary following his death.

When Frederik was still a prince, Halbye was reportedly appointed to help teach him about Danish business life. This later blossomed into a friendship, the newspaper said.

Mr Halbye had also been a key figure at consulting company McKinsey in Denmark and employees have shared their shock and offered condolences online.

As Roy Berggren - a senior Partner Emeritus at McKinsey - wrote: "What a tragedy. His true colours stood out already in 1988 when I joined the Scandinavia office. His leadership of the Firm’s personnel committees was inspirational. What a loss. RIP."