Second crash paraglider pilot has died

Thursday 20th August 2009, 11:30AM BST.

A second paraglider pilot involved in a mid-air crash over a Shropshire hillside has died. Dennis Wray, 66, from Otley, North Yorkshire, has died in hospital from the injuries he suffered.

Mr Wray plunged to the ground following the crash above the Long Mynd on August 8.

The other paraglider pilot, 49-year-old Stephen Allen, of Llanwitmajor, Vale of Glamorgan, died on the day of the collision.

It is believed both paraglider pilots hit the ground hard. The accident happened in front of hundreds of people on a public road on the Long Mynd, near Church Stretton.

The British Hang Gliding and Paragliding Association said today: “On August 8, there was a mid-air collision between two paraglider pilots at the British Club Challenge.

“As a result Mr Allen, from the South East Wales Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club, and Mr Wray impacted the ground hard. First aiders attended and the air ambulance was called.

“Both pilots received emergency attention at the scene, and then were taken away. Sadly Mr Allen passed away on arrival at hospital.

“Following emergency surgery, Mr Wray was admitted to intensive care, but sadly passed away on the evening of August 17.

“There will be a full investigation into this tragic accident, but for the moment our thoughts must be with Steve and Dennis’s family and friends.”

Paying tribute to Mr Allen, Bob Allen, his older brother, said: “He was an independent guy. He went off and did what he wanted to do. He was adventurous.”



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