Light aircraft pilot dies in East Sussex crash

Police said the pilot died at the scene

A pilot died when his light aircraft crashed in a field in East Sussex, police have said.

The aircraft came down in open ground off Herring Lane, north of Heathfield, at about 11:00 BST.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said crews had extinguished a blaze at the scene, which is near a flying school.

The Air Accidents Investigation Branch has confirmed it is investigating. The pilot has not yet been named.

A Sussex Police spokesman said the aircraft had caught fire after crashing, adding: "Unfortunately, the pilot is believed to have died instantly. His next of kin have been advised."

Emergency teams were called after the aircraft crashed and caught fire