The pilot of a microlight aircraft had a lucky escape when he crashed into trees while trying to make an emergency landing.

The aircraft had been one of three which left from Connel airfield, near Oban, Argyllshire, on the west coast of Scotland, to travel together to Broadford airstrip on the Isle of Skye at about 1110BST on Saturday

About two hours later, on making their approach to Broadford, the microlights had descended to a height of 2000ft and were passing over an area known locally as Kinloch, when one of the aircraft developed an engine fault.

It was necessary for the pilot to glide down and land on a nearby football pitch.

No one injured

But on attempting to land, the microlight was caught by a downdraft which resulted in it coming into contact with the treetops of a nearby pine forest.

The aircraft snagged and fell down approximately 15ft between the trees.

Police said no one was injured as a result of the incident and only minor damage was caused to the aircraft.

The incident was witnessed by the pilot's colleagues.

The 47-year-old pilot of the downed microlight has told police he does not wish for his identity to be released.

Police officers from Northern Constabulary are investigating the incident along with the Air Accident Investigation Board.