Death air probe carries on

Investigations were continuing today into the death of a microlight pilot near a Shifnal airfield.

Martin Walsh, of Burford, Brookside, Telford, was confirmed dead at the scene of Friday's crash.

His aircraft hit a hedge as he was apparently trying to land on an airfield off Shaw Lane.

Paramedics were unable to resuscitate the pilot, who was in his late 50s.

Mr Walsh worked as an aircraft technician for Aerospace Aviation at Wolverhampton Business Airport.

He was an experienced, qualified microlight pilot and a founder member of Wrekin Microlight Club.

Club member Bob Findlay said today: "His death was a great shock. The first I knew about it was when I read about the crash in the Shr-opshire Star on Saturday.

"Martin was a lovely chap. I'd known him for at least three years and he was so helpful . . . My condolences go out to his family."

He added that it was likely to be several months before the Air Accident Investigation Board has completed its inquiries.

Meanwhile, a man flying a paraglider was airlifted to the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital from Caradoc Hill, near Church Stretton.

The County Air Ambulance was sent there just after midday on Saturday.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: "The 46-year-old from Wolverhampton had been using the paraglider and was coming in to land when the accident happened.

"It appears as though he came in to land faster than he was expecting.

"He went over on his angle and suffered a fractured dislocation to his left ankle. He was given initial aid by a retired doctor until the helicopter crew arrived."