Two killed in Wales aircraft crash

Two people have died after a light aircraft crashed into a mountain in Wales, police confirmed tonight.

Emergency services were alerted to the incident at Long Mountain in Leighton near Welshpool, Powys, at around midday today.

Chief Inspector Martin Tavener of Dyfed-Powys Police said: "This incident involved a light aircraft which has come down on Long Mountain.

"The Air Accident Investigation Branch are en route to the scene and will take on the investigation from here."

Mr Tavener added: "We have now located next of kin and a family liaison officer has been appointed."

Ambulance services said crews were called at 12.41pm.

A Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokesman said: "Emergency services have been dealing with an incident involving a small aircraft which has come down in the Leighton area of Welshpool.

"Two appliances from Welshpool, one appliance from Llanfair Caereinion, and a Land Rover Pump from Llanfyllin have attended the incident. Two breathing apparatus sets have been in use, and a low-pressure hose reel jet."

The crash happened in a rural area popular with hikers and pony trekkers.

Welshpool is home to Mid-Wales airport which has a flying club.

PA