The Royal Air Force has temporarily grounded the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight following the death of a pilot in a crash.

Sqn Ldr Mark Long was killed when the Spitfire he was flying crashed in a field in Lincolnshire.

Emergency crews were called to the site near RAF Coningsby shortly before 13:20 BST on Saturday.

The RAF said it had taken the decision to ground the aircraft while investigations take place.

A spokesperson said: “Following the tragic accident at RAF Coningsby, and while the formal investigation is ongoing, the RAF has instigated a temporary pause in flying for the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF).”

In a post on Facebook, officials said the BBMF visitor centre would remain closed until further notice.

The BBMF planes, which include Spitfires, Hurricanes and a Lancaster bomber, are a popular sight at summer shows.