Body is missing pilot

A BODY found in the search for a missing pilot is that of Professor David Last.

Retired Bangor University academic Prof Last, 79, was found by police divers in deep water off Puffin Island, Anglesey on December 12.

North Wales senior coroner Dewi Pritchard Jones confirmed a formal identification had taken place and a post-mortem had been carried out.

An investigation by police on behalf of the coroner is underway and the Air Accident Investigation Branch are also investigating the circumstances of the incident.

Prof Last, from Llanfairfechan was found following extensive searches by coastguard and police helicopters, several lifeboats and shore search teams.

The Bangor University search vessel, Prince Madog, was also deployed on several occasions.

The Cessna 172 plane he was flying took off from Caernarfon Airport at about midday on November 25 for a local flight. It was seen on radar to fly over the Great Orme and turn round to return to its base.

But while approaching Anglesey it suddenly disappeared, sparking the major search.

His family have now set up an online fundraising campaign in his memory for the Wales Air Ambulance.

At the time of writing more than £800 had been raised in just a few days.

Arrangements for the funeral service have also been revealed.

A public service will be at the Prichard Jones Hall, College Road, Bangor on Thursday, January 23 at 1pm followed by committal at Bangor Crematorium at 2.15pm.