RAF pilot killed in Spitfire crash in Lincolnshire is named as Mark Long

A pilot killed in a Spitfire crash in Lincolnshire has been named.

The Royal Air Force (RAF) said it was with "great sorrow" it could confirm the death of Squadron Leader Mark Long.

Emergency crews were called to the scene on Langrick Road in Coningsby following reports of a plane going down just before 1.20pm on Saturday.

Group Captain Robbie Lees said: "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."

Mr Long, who was a father, was introduced to flying as a child when he would attend airshows with his family.

He joined the RAF and eventually rose to pilot the Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jet.

An investigation into the cause of the crash is under way.

Gp Capt Lees said: "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."

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RAF Coningsby is home to the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, a collection of wartime fighter and bomber aircraft that take part in air shows and memorial displays.

Lincolnshire Police said the pilot was the "sole occupant of the aircraft" and he died at the scene.

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Following the pilot's death, tributes were paid by the Prince and Princess of Wales, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.