Police have confirmed one of young men who died in a light aircraft crash near Selby at the weekend was from Burley in Wharfedale.
A two-seater light aircraft with two occupants crashed at a rural location near Selby on Sunday morning, 28 July.
Oliver Dawes, 24, of Burley in Wharfedale, was the passenger on the plane and his family have said in statement:
“Yesterday, we lost a dearly loved son, cousin, nephew and friend. Oliver will continue to live on in our hearts and memories as the kind, generous, hardworking and fun man he had become. We will miss him every day for the rest of our lives, we are heartbroken.”
The second man who died been named as Matthew Bird, who was the pilot of the light aircraft, was 21 and from Spofforth.
Matthew’s family paid tribute to him:
“Yesterday we lost our son, a brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend.
“Matthew meant so much to so many. We are utterly heartbroken but he will live on in our hearts as we cherish the incredibly special memories he’s left us with.”
North Yorkshire Police say investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are on going.

Starbucks sign refused by Bradford planners
Little Shop of Horrors set to wow audiences
MP launches 2025 Small Business Awards
ELO to Abba, choir and Brass Band come together for Ilkley concert
Airedale rebuild takes first step with multi-storey car park plans
Pub sees increase in business after introducing 'Tax-free Monday'
Ilkley Manor House Christmas Makers’ Fair returns in November
Ilkley's annual Remembrance parade and service this Sunday
New journey for Ilkley's Ticket Office bar
Addingham invites traders for festive Christmas market
Ilkley Rugby Club to host girls open afternoon
Smiles all round after singing workshop
Airedale Hospital launch annual Christmas card competition
Festive sparkle returns to Burley‑in‑Wharfedale
Annual Beer and Blues Festival supports Ilkley Live
Community spirit sparkles at Ilkley’s Christmas Tree Festival
2026 dates announced for the 7th Ilkley Food & Drink Festival
Organisers cancel Ilkley Pumpkin Trail
Limited tickets remain for Ashlands Bonfire and Fireworks night
Ilkley households to get weekly food waste collections


