Show goes on after death of pilot during air display

The CarFest event has resumed yesterday despite the death of a pilot whose aircraft plummeted from the sky during an aerial display.

Kevin Whyman, 35, was killed in the accident which took place at around 2pm in Oulton Park, Cheshire, on Saturday.

But TV and radio presenter Chris Evans, who created the event, said police had advised that it would be best to carry on with the festival.

Cheshire Police said they are continuing their investigation at the scene alongside the Air Accident Investigation Branch.

Superintendent Bev Raistrick thanked spectators, who watched in horror as the plane crashed to the ground, for submitting videos and pictures of the incident.

“We are continuing to work alongside the other agencies involved— including the Air Accident Investigation Branch,” she said.

“Enquiries are ongoing in a bid to establish the full circumstances of what has happened.

“Our thoughts remain with all those who have been affected by the incident.

“We have had a lot of calls from members of the public who have contacted us with information following the incident— this includes video footage and photographs — which may assist with the investigation. I would like to thank them for their assistance.”

Shocked spectators fell silent as the plane suddenly nose-dived after performing a low-level, close-proximity pass before disappearing behind trees. Moments later a plume of thick black smoke billowed in to the sky.

A visibly upset Evans told reporters: “There was a tragic accident, the result of which was that one of the pilots involved in a synchro display lost his life.”

The presenter added: “Our condolences go out to his family, who have been informed.

“The police have also advised us that the best thing and the safest thing to do is to carry on with the event, bearing in mind that there are 10,000 children here — and that is what we are going to do.”