POLICE investigating a fatal plane crash in Kent are now believed to be concentrating their inquiries in a neighbouring county as they follow up a possible drug smuggling link.

A man in his 50s died when his light aircraft plunged into a field off Maidstone Road, Horsmonden, near Paddock Wood, at about 10.45am on Tuesday last week.

Quantities of what police believe to be herbal cannabis and tobacco were later found in the wreckage of the Piper Cherokee Warrior 2 aircraft.

The pilot, who was the only person on board, was killed in the accident, which occurred in thick fog. No-one on the ground was hurt.

He is now thought to be a family man who lived in Horsham, West Sussex, but has still not been formally identified.

Police said forensic tests would be needed before confirmation of the pilot’s identity could be given. West Kent coroner Roger Hatch has been informed .

West Kent police said substances recovered from the aircraft have been sent away for further analysis. The quantity has not been revealed.

The aircraft wreckage has been removed by officers from the Department of Transport Air Accident Investigation Branch who are still investigating the cause of the crash.