Red Arrows pay tribute to Spitfire crash pilot

Red Arrows pay tribute to Spitfire crash pilot 2 hours agoEleanor Maslin,BBC NewsShareMODSqn Ldr Mark Long was described as a "passionate aviator" in a tribute by the RAF The Red Arrows have shared their "heartfelt condolences" after the death of a pilot when his Spitfire crashed into a Lincolnshire field. Emergency crews were called shortly before 13:20 BST on 25 May to the site near RAF Coningsby where Sqn Ldr Mark Long crashed. Red Arrows team leader Sqn Ldr Jon Bond said he and fellow pilots were supporting Sqn Ldr Long's family "as much as we can". The display team is getting ready to start its 60th anniversary season after returning from winter training in Greece on Saturday.Sqn Ldr Jon Bond said "things can change quickly" when flying The RAF said a "comprehensive investigation" was now under way to determine the cause of the Spitfire crash. Speaking to BBC Radio Lincolnshire, Sqn Ldr Bond said: "Awful news to come back to on Saturday. "Our absolute heartfelt condolences go to Mark's family, all at the BBMF (Battle of Britain Memorial Flight) and all at RAF Coningsby.