A North Weald-based pilot was killed at the weekend when his plane crashed during the CarFest show created by TV and radio presenter Chris Evans.

Pilot Kevin Whyman, 39, who was part of the North Weald Airfield Gnat Display Team, died following the tragic accident on Saturday (August 1).

Thousands fell silent as Mr Whyman's plane suddenly nose-dived during the CarFest display in Oulton Park, Cheshire, and disappeared behind trees.

Moments later a plume of thick black smoke billowed into the sky.

The father-of-one, who was trained during a three-year spell with the RAF, was performing a low-level, close-proximity pass with another plane just before the crash.

The aircraft reportedly failed to pull up and crashed north of the circuit.

The Heritage Aircraft Trust, which runs the Gnat Display Team, said: "Kevin was a Royal Air Force-trained fast jet pilot whose enthusiasm for flying the Folland Gnat was infectious.

"Kevin leaves a wife and young daughter.

"He will be greatly missed by his family, the team and many friends."