Fund set up for pilot and boy (7) who died in Clonbullogue plane crash

The 47-year-old English pilot who died in Sunday’s plane crash in Clonbologue, Co Offaly has been named as Neil 'Billy' Bowditch.

Seven-year-old Kacper Kacprzak, whose father took part in the parachute jump minutes before the crash, also died in the incident.

An online fundraising campaign has so far raised over €20,000 for their families. Most people have given small donations of around €20 each.

The GoFundMe page, set up yesterday by Allaiouti Hassan, asks people to help the families of Kacper - who lived in Blanchardstown with his family - and Mr Bowditch.

Mr Hassan said: "This is a difficult time for us all.

"I know that our skydiving family and the wider community want to come together and do what we can to support the families affected by this tragic accident.

"I myself have a son the same age as Kacper who loves planes.

"Having met Kacper at the club I know he was such a beautiful boy who would touch anyone’s heart.

"Please everyone let’s support their families at this tragic time.

"Every donation counts, no amount is too small or too big.

"Let’s show these families what they mean to us all.

"Please feel free to share this gofundme page with all your family and friends."