Winchelsea aircraft crash: Wreckage washed ashore

Wreckage believed to be from the light aircraft which crashed into the sea this afternoon has washed up on Winchelsea Beach, Sussex Police have confirmed.

The Force has issued the following statement this evening (August 6): “Just after 5pm on Saturday (August 6) we received a report from a member of the public that a light aircraft had been seen to go into the sea about half a mile off Winchelsea Beach.

“A Coastguard helicopter has been searching the area, and we are in contact with them.

“Initial reports suggest that the aircraft comes from a local Aero Club and that the man flying it was the sole occupant.

“Some wreckage which is believed to be from aircraft has been found washed ashore at Winchelsea Beach.

“The Air Accident Investigation Branch (AAIB) have been informed and will be leading the investigation.

“The search and investigation is at an early stage and no further information is available at present.”

Anyone who saw what happened is asked to contact Sussex Police on [email protected] or call 101 quoting Serial 1172 of 06/08.

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