Spitfire plane crash-lands in Kent field Published duration 7 September 2015

image copyright @LizTriSpirit image caption A large amount of fuel leaked from the Spitfire, according to Kent Fire and Rescue Service

A Spitfire fighter plane has crash-landed in a field in Kent.

The historic aircraft made the emergency landing in Woodchurch, Ashford, at about 09:50 BST, according to Kent Police.

The pilot was looked at by paramedics at the scene but is not thought to have been injured. A large amount of fuel has leaked from the plane.

The Spitfire's left wing was torn off during the crash-landing, close to Woodchurch Warbirds airfield.

'Looks repairable'

It is thought the Germany-based two-seater Spitfire was being tested ahead of an appearance at the Goodwood Revival festival over the weekend.

Eyewitness Liz King posted on Twitter: "Plane down Woodchurch, Ashford pilot OK. Looks repairable."

The plane suffered engine problems shortly after take-off.

Kent Police said the Environment Agency and the Civil Aviation Authority had been alerted to the incident.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue Service said: "The pilot was already out of the plane when fire crews arrived. He was assessed by paramedics at the scene.

"Firefighters remain in attendance making the scene safe and are dealing with a leak of a large quantity of aviation fuel.

"There are no further casualties and the cause of the crash is not yet known."

The three-day Goodwood Revival festival, near Chichester, West Sussex, showcases vintage and classic cars, motorcycles and aircraft.

image copyright @LizTriSpirit image caption The Spitfire pilot made an emergency landing in the field in Woodchurch at about 09:50 BST