Tributes continue to be paid to pilot of the Spitfire who was killed following a crash at Coningsby

The nearby Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage centre has opened a book of condolence

Chapel at Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre
Author: Julie CastonPublished 28th May 2024
Last updated 28th May 2024

Tributes continue to be paid to the pilot of the Spitfire who was killed following a crash at Coningsby.

Investigations are looking into the exact circumstances which led to the death of Squadron Leader Mark Long.

The Battle of Britain Memorial flight which is based at RAF Coningsby has been grounded on a temporary basis.

The nearby Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage centre at East Kirkby has opened a book of condolence with over 100 messages already written in it.

General manager Andrew Panton says the tragedy has touched many people throughout Lincolnshire :

"There seems to be some kind of intrinsic link between the people of Lincolnshire and the RAF and BBMF as well.

"So people who have grown up in the county with having the Battle of Britain Flight at RAF Coningsby - there just seems to be some sort of pairing there that is born into people in Lincolnshire.

They plan to give the book of condolence to the pilot's family:

"I hope in time they'll be able to look through the book of condolence and maybe draw some comfort from it perhaps.

"Knowing what sort of effect Squadron Leader Long had on people and to see the difference he has made in his life".

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