Glider crash inquiry is launched

The glider came down by the Bristol and Gloucestershire Gliding Club

An investigation has been launched into the cause of a fatal glider accident.

The aircraft crashed into trees shortly after taking off from an airfield in Nympsfield, Gloucestershire at around 1400 BST on Saturday.

The pilot, a local man in his early 50s, was rescued from the wreckage by firefighters but was pronounced dead on arrival at Gloucester Royal Hospital.

Police are investigating the incident and say they will be liaising with the British Gliding Association.

The accident happened near the Bristol and Gloucestershire Gliding Club, where a 10-day gliding contest was being held.

But it is understood the man was not taking part in the competition and was on pleasure flight in his own glider.

Eyewitnesses said the aircraft appeared to run into trouble soon after taking off, before flipping over and landing in trees which line the airfield.

People at the club were too upset on Sunday to talk about the accident.