last updated: Friday 3 July 2009, 21:00pm

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Tributes paid to Tornado crash victims

Flight Lieutenant Nigel Morton and Flight Lieutenant Kenneth Thompson

Tributes have been paid to the two RAF pilots who died when their Tornado F3 aircraft crashed during a training flight in Scotland.

Flight Lieutenant Kenneth Thompson, 27, and 43-year-old Flight Lieutenant Nigel Morton, of 43 Squadron, RAF Leuchars, were killed on Thursday at Glen Kinglas in Argyll.

An inquiry into the incident is under way.

Flight Lieutenant Thompson was from the Glasgow area and Flight Lieutenant Morton, was from Fife.

Flight Lieutenant Thompson's family said: 'Kenneth is from a military family background. He was passionate about his career in the RAF, his flying and he loved life.

'We, the family have lost our son and brother, but take some comfort from the fact that he died doing what he loved - flying. Our thoughts are also with the family of his navigator, friend and colleague at this most difficult time for us all.'

And Flight Lieutenant Morton's family said: 'Beloved father and husband, son, brother and son-in-law. Respected by all who worked with him. Our thoughts are with Kenny's family at this terrible time.'

Air Commodore R J Atkinson, Air Officer Scotland and Officer Commanding Royal Air Force Leuchars said: 'Flight Lieutenant Nige Morton was a wonderful energetic and professional member of our team.

'Constantly enthusiastic and steeped in experience he has been a highly valued member of his Squadron and RAF Leuchars. Well known by everyone, Nige will be sorely missed; my thoughts are with his wife and son at this desperate time.

'Flight Lieutenant Kenny Thompson was a bright and effervescent young man with a zest for life.

'I shall remember him for his constant smile and inspirational attitude that brought much happiness to all; he will be dearly missed by all who have known him. My thoughts are with his family.'

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