An air cadet and RAF reservist who died when their training aircraft collided in mid-air with a glider are expected to be named today.

The two-seater RAF Grob Tutor plane had taken off from RAF Benson on an air experience flight with the pilot and the Combined Cadet Force cadet onboard when the accident occurred.

The pilot of the glider managed to parachute from his stricken aircraft and he landed safely in fields at Sutton Courtenay, near Abingdon.

Eyewitnesses said the single-engined trainer hit the ground nose first with a violent impact after spiralling out of control.

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: "A thorough investigation will take place, and we will take whatever action is necessary to prevent a recurrence of this tragic event.

"It is too early to comment on the cause of the incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the passenger and pilot at this time."

He added that identification of those who died would not happen until later today.