Pilot dies after problems during take-off

Emergency services attended the scene of the light aircraft crash in Defford, Worcestershire, on Tuesday

A pilot has died in a light aircraft crash in Worcestershire, police have confirmed.

West Mercia Police said the incident happened at about 10:45 BST on Tuesday, in Woodmancote in Worcestershire.

Officers received reports that a small plane had experienced difficulties during take-off, causing it to descend rapidly to the ground.

The man, aged 69, was confirmed dead at the scene, but no-one else was injured during the incident. An inquiry has been opened by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch.

Police and fire and rescue crews also attended Defford Croft Farm Airfield.

A spokesperson for West Midlands Ambulance Service said it was alerted by the fire service to reports of the crash.

The air ambulance from Cosford was also deployed to the scene.

"It quickly became apparent that nothing could be done to save the single occupant of the aircraft and they were sadly confirmed deceased on scene by ambulance staff," the ambulance service said.