Ministry of DefenceA Royal Air Force pilot who died after a Spitfire crashed into a field near an air base has been named as Squadron Leader Mark Long.
Police and emergency services arrived at the scene on Langrick Road near RAF Coningsby at just before 1.20pm on Saturday.
The Spitfire, believed to be the MK356, of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight was flying near the air station when the crash took place.
Group Captain Robbie Lees, Commander Display Air Wing said: “It is with great sorrow that I must confirm the death of Squadron Leader Mark Long.
“Mark was a Typhoon pilot here at RAF Coningsby and for the last four years he has been a pilot with the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. A great friend, colleague, and a passionate, professional aviator he will be sorely missed by all that knew him.
“An investigation into the cause of this tragic event has now begun. The RAF will not be offering any comment on the accident until that investigation has concluded, and likewise we ask others not to speculate.
“I would like to extend a sincere thank you to the RAF personnel, and our emergency services colleagues who responded so swiftly yesterday.
“Our thoughts remain with Mark’s family and friends to whom we offer our deepest sympathies. We ask that their privacy be respected at this tragic and shocking time.”
Follow STV News on WhatsApp
Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
