A pilot who died in a plane crash at an Oxfordshire airfield this week has been named locally.

Thames Valley Police were called to Enstone Airfield in Banbury Road at about 2pm on Sunday (July 28) following reports of a light aircraft crash.

A 71-year-old pilot, who was the only occupant of a replica Spitfire which crashed shortly after take-off, was pronounced dead at the scene.

He has now been named locally as Pete as tributes poured in for the pilot on Tuesday morning after his death had been announced the day before.

“Pete was the best of the best,” said George Cooper.

READ MORE: Tributes to man killed in Oxfordshire plane crash

Enstone Airfield in Banbury Road.Enstone Airfield in Banbury Road. (Image: NQ)

“A great pilot, husband, grandfather and friend. He will be sadly missed by all of us.”

Another said: “Such a shame.”

His surname has not been disclosed at this stage.

Thames Valley Police confirmed that no one else was injured in the crash.

A spokesperson for the force said: "Sadly, the pilot, believed to be a 71-year-old man, was pronounced dead at the scene. His family are being supported by specially trained officers.

“Formal identification and other coronial processes will take place in due course.

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An example of a Spitfire (stock photo).An example of a Spitfire (stock photo). (Image: PA)

“The pilot, who was the only occupant of the plane, was flying a replica Spitfire, which crashed shortly after take-off. No one else was injured following this incident.

“Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue also attended, along with South Central Ambulance Service, and the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB).

“If anyone has witnessed this incident or has any footage or photographs that will assist with the investigation, we would ask them to please contact us either online or by calling 101 quoting reference 43240359739.”

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