Executive killed in plane crash days before Christmas was 'passionate' pilot

A man who died when a light aircraft crashed in Fife just two days before Christmas has been named.

Nicholas Denison-Pender, from Perthshire, was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash in Kinglassie on December 23.

The 50-year-old was the chief operating officer of SBD Automotive, an international engineering consultancy firm.

Mr Denison-Pender had joined the company this year having worked at a senior level in business for more than 15 years across Europe, the US, India and Africa.

He was described as enjoying the great outdoors with his family, fishing and "pursuing his passion as a private pilot".

The crash happened around 11.40am shortly after the plane had departed Fife Airport in Glenrothes.

Enquiries remain ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Detective inspector Samantha Davidson said: "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Nicholas as they come to terms with their loss.

"The family have asked for their privacy at this difficult time.

"An investigation into the circumstances of the crash remains ongoing and we would ask for anyone with information, to please come forward."