Man, 33, fell from Virgin hot air balloon

A 33-year-old man died after falling from a hot air balloon near Billingshurst, West Sussex

A hot air balloon from which a man fell and died in West Sussex was being operated by Virgin, the company has confirmed.

Emergency services were called to a report of a man having fallen from the balloon at Newpound Common in Wisborough Green, near Billingshurst, at about 09:20 BST on Friday.

The body of the 33-year-old, from Hertfordshire, was found in a field at 13:50. Police said officers were investigating but it was not being treated as suspicious.

A spokesperson for Virgin Balloon Flights said it was "working closely with, and fully supporting, the relevant authorities as they carry out their investigation".

The man was with a group of 16 people and a pilot in the hot air balloon, which had been travelling from Billingshurst to Dunsfold in Surrey.

The Virgin spokesperson said: "Our thoughts are first and foremost with the individual's family at this incredibly difficult time.

"We are also deeply mindful of the experience of all passengers involved and their wellbeing and peace of mind remain a priority.

"We kindly ask that privacy is respected, as the welfare and safety of our passengers and the public is always our utmost concern."

Det Sgt Elaine Keating said: "This is a tragic incident and our thoughts go to the family of the man and everyone on the flight. We are offering them specialist support at this time."