TWO skydivers have died after a “tragic accident” during a tandem jump yesterday.

Emergency services rushed to Dunkeswell Airfield in Devon, but the pair were both pronounced dead at the scene.

Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that families of the skydivers had been informed and investigations into the incident were underway.

They asked anyone with information on the tragedy to get in touch.

British Skydiving Chief executive Robert Gibson confirmed that a probe had been launched and his organisation was assisting authorities.

In a statement yesterday, he said: “Today British Skydiving has been notified of a tragic accident in which two jumpers lost their lives.

“Our deepest condolences go to their families, friends and the entire skydiving community.

“A British Skydiving Board of Inquiry will investigate the accident.

“Once complete, a report will be submitted to the coroner, the police, the CAA, the British Skydiving Safety & Training Committee (STC) and any other relevant authorities.

“No further details will be provided at this time. We respectfully ask for privacy for all those affected at this difficult time.”

Local charity Devon in Sight told how it had suspended its upcoming skydiving events while the investigation was ongoing.

CEO Grahame Flynn said: “Having undertaken two skydive challenges in 2018 and 2022 I know how meticulous the team at Skydive Buzz are in their training.

“In view of this tragic news our events planned for Saturday 21st June, Wednesday 25th June and Saturday 5th July are suspended pending investigation.

“Our Jump for Sight Challenges have raised significant funds for our work over the years.

“At this time our thoughts are with the instructor and student who lost their lives and their families, friends and colleagues.”

Dunkeswell Aerodrome claims to have the ‘highest tandem skydive in the UK’ – with jumps ranging from 7,000, 10,000, and 15,000 feet.

It is a popular venue for parachuting, taking place on Wednesdays to Sundays and Bank Holidays almost all year round.

Spectators are able to watch jumpers from the airfield’s Aviator coffee bar and restaurant.

At 839 feet above sea level, Dunkeswell is the UK’s highest licenced airfield.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: “Emergency services were called to the area of Dunkeswell Aerodrome at around 1pm on Friday 13 June following concerns for the welfare of two people.

“It was reported that they were skydivers.

“They were sadly both confirmed deceased at the scene and their families have been informed.

“Scene guards remain in place and enquiries are ongoing by the relevant agencies.

“If anyone has information which may assist us, please call 101 or report via our website quoting 50250150193.”