Coningsby crash victim named as Squadron Leader Mark Long

The Royal Air Force pilot who died in a Spitfire crash near RAF Coningsby has been named as Squadron Leader Mark Long.

Police and emergency services rushed to the scene on Langrick Road in Lincolnshire just before 1.20pm on Saturday.

The Spitfire of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF) was flying near the air station when the crash took place.

Group Captain Robbie Lees, Commander Display Air Wing, said in a statement: "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 crash has begun.

Mr Long was declared dead at the scene.

Lincolnshire Police said it was a single occupant aircraft and nobody else was involved.

The East Midlands Ambulance Service sent a "number of resources", including a paramedic and a helicopter ambulance.

Road closures were in place in the areas of Dogdyke Road and Sandy Bank, with motorists urged to avoid the area.

The Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and the Prince and Princess of Wales are among those sending their condolences.

William was Honorary Air Commodore of RAF Coningsby from 2008 to August 2023, when he handed the role over to Kate.

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

Only a few dozen airworthy Spitfires remain, including six that belong to the BBMF.

Hear the latest news on Downtown on FM, DAB, smart speaker or the Rayo app.