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A seasoned pilot perished during a competition following a devastating mid-air collision that sent his glider hurtling towards the earth at speeds exceeding 100mph, an inquest was told.

Experienced aviator Philip Dolan, 67, lost his life when his aircraft's tail was severed, causing it to enter a barrel roll before crashing to the ground in full view of shocked onlookers in August 2023.

The inquest heard how the retired petroleum engineer had been circling at approximately 2,500ft when he collided with another glider over Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire.

The impact with the wing of the second aircraft completely detached his tail section, sending him plummeting earthward nose-first at "high velocity."

Emergency crews raced to the scene but were unable to save Mr Dolan, wh

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