A PILOT has died in a tragic accident at a festival organised by TV star and Warrington’s own Chris Evans.

The plane crashed shortly before 2pm today, Saturday, at a Car Fest event at Oulton Park.

The plane was performing an aerial stunt at the time of the incident.

The pilot has since been named as 35-year-old Kevin Whyman.

A statement from Heritage Aircraft Trust, which runs the team, said: "Kevin was a Royal Air Force trained fast jet pilot whose enthusiasm for flying the Folland Gnat was infectious.

“He will be greatly missed by his family, the team and many friends.

"Kevin leaves a wife and young daughter. Please respect the privacy of family members and of the team at this most difficult time."

Emergency services remain at the scene and Coach Road remains closed.

Former Padgate High School pupil Chris Evans, who forced back tears as he gave a statement earlier today, described the crash as a ‘tragic accident’.

He added: “Our condolences go out to his family who have been informed.

“The event will continue on the advice of the aviation authorities we are currently involved with as part of the on-going investigation into what happened.

“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 there are 10,000 children here, and that’s what we are going to do and that’s where we are up to.”

Officers are currently liaising with all those involved to try and establish the circumstances of what has happened.

Superintendent Beverly Raistrick said: “We are working alongside the other emergency services and the organisers of the event to manage the scene and to try and establish the circumstances of what has happened.

“The area affected by the incident has been cordoned off and officers will remain at the scene.”

The Air Accident Investigation Branch has been informed and they are en route to the site.

Anyone with any information is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 539 of August 1.