The family of a pilot killed in a replica Spitfire crash in Oxfordshire have issued a heartfelt tribute.

Peter Hughes died following a light aircraft crash at Enstone Airfield, Chipping Norton, at around 2pm on Sunday, July 28.

The crash occurred shortly after take-off and the emergency services were immediately called to the airfield.

Thames Valley Police arrived as well as South Central Ambulance Service but the 71-year-old pilot, who was the only occupant of the light aircraft, was pronounced dead at the scene.

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The family of Peter Hughes have released a tribute.The family of Peter Hughes have released a tribute. (Image: Thames Valley Police)

Peter’s family have now penned a touching tribute which was released via Thames Valley Police on Tuesday afternoon.

"Pete was a loving husband, father, Poppa and brother,” they said.

“He had an adoring family and many, many friends who loved and respected him. 

“Pete was an extremely good man who was deeply generous in so many ways; his love, his time, energy and spirit, and was an integral part of the numerous communities that he held dear.

“We are all devastated and he will be sorely, sorely missed.”

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The crash involved a replica Spitfire (file photo).The crash involved a replica Spitfire (file photo). (Image: PA)

“Pete was an extraordinarily energetic man, who loved helping and getting the very best from people who knew him, always with such humour, and his twinkly smile,” said Peter, Genevieve and their family.

“Our hearts go out to his family who will struggle with their huge loss, as he was such a doting family man who adored them all.

“He will be missed by so many.”

Another said: “Such a shame.”

A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said: “At this difficult time, we would please ask to respect the privacy of the family.”

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The crash occurred at Enstone Airfield in Banbury Road.The crash occurred at Enstone Airfield in Banbury Road. (Image: NQ)

Other tributes were paid to Peter in the past week as the news broke of the crash with friends paying their respects to the pilot.

“Pete Hughes was a very experienced pilot and a true gentleman,” said Trevor Hyde.

“He will be greatly missed.

“He was involved in the Enstone Spitfire project from the very early days and was always a source of wise advice backed by years of experience and good humour.”

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue also attended the scene at Enstone along with the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB).

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A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police at the time 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.

“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.”

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Enstone Airfield is located on Banbury Road, Oxfordshire.Enstone Airfield is located on Banbury Road, Oxfordshire. (Image: Newsquest)

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