An RAF engineer died when a Red Arrows Hawk jet crashed following an incident at RAF Valley.

The aircraft crashed and burst into flames on the runway in Anglesey on Tuesday afternoon.

North Wales Police has confirmed that one man died and another - the aircraft's pilot - is seriously injured.

Chief Inspector Simon Barrasford at North Wales Police, who is leading the initial response, said: "The aircraft involved, a Red Arrows Hawk crewed by two RAF personnel, was reported to have crashed.

"Sadly I can confirm that one of the two personnel has died whilst his colleague is now being treated in hospital.

"Our thoughts are with both men’s families at this very difficult time. 

"Police and Crime Scene investigators supported by other specialists will now begin a joint and full investigation led by the Air Accident Investigation Branch to establish what led up to and caused this tragic event.

"Until that time it would be inappropriate to add anything further. The Coroner for north west Wales will also be informed."

It is understood the Red Arrows aircrew had been at RAF Valley for routine Hawk simulator training - something that takes place once a month.

They had just taken off from the base and were on their way back to RAF Scampton, where the aerobatic team are based, when the incident happened.

Group captain Nick Tucker-Lowe said in a statement: "It's with great sadness that the RAF can confirm the death of an engineer from the RAF aerobatics team The Red Arrows in a tragic accident today.

"The engineer's family have been informed and have asked for a 24-hour period of grace before further details are released.

"The pilot of the aircraft survived the incident and is currently receiving medical care."

Defence secretary Gavin Williamson said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and colleagues of the RAF engineer at this incredibly sad time."

Sian Rebecca Williams, an 18-year-old student from Rhosneigr, north Wales, said she was waiting at Rhosneigr train station when the jet flew overhead.

"The Red Arrow came over and because I'd hardly seen one before I thought 'Wow, it's out'," she said.

"From what I remember it did a loop and flew towards the runway and looked like it was about to land.

"As I was looking I saw the parachute of one pilot open and then the plane hit the runway with a bang and a crumbling noise.

"Then it just burned bright orange and there was smoke everywhere."

The on-base fire engine drove out to the wreckage "instantly", she said, putting the flames out before an air ambulance arrived.

The Air Accidents Investigation Branch will now begin a full investigation into what caused the accident, North Wales Police said.

Some 1,500 service personnel, civil servants and contractors work at RAF Valley on Anglesey, which is also home to the military's search-and-rescue, post-crash team.

It is home to the No 4 Flying Training School which is "responsible for training the UK's next generation of world-class fighter pilots", according to its website.