Prince William and Kate Middleton pay tribute to late friend Mark Jenkins after plane crash death

The Prince and Princess of Wales have released a statement remembering their friend, conservationist Mark Jenkins, after he and his son were killed in a plane crash yesterday morning.

"Yesterday, I lost a friend, who dedicated his life to protecting wildlife in some of East Africa's most renowned national parks," the couple wrote in a tweet.

"Mark Jenkins, and his son Peter, were tragically killed when flying over Tsavo National Park while conducting an aerial patrol.

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"Tonight, I'm thinking about Mark's wife, family and colleagues who've sadly lost a man we all loved and admired."

Jenkins was a renowned conservationist with a love for flying. At the time of his and his son's death, they were flying over Tsavo National Park in Kenya while trying to drive cows, camels and goats out of the park.

The circumstances of the crash are currently being investigated by authorities.

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The Frankfurt Zoological Society, for whom Jenkins previously worked, read, "Mark was a lifelong conservationist and experienced bush pilot, who dedicated his career to protecting wildlife in some of East Africa's most renowned national parks.

"Passionate, principled, and strong-willed, Mark was never afraid to speak his mind and stand for what he believed in. He was a commanding presence and made an indelible impression wherever he went.

"Those of us who worked alongside him remember him for his determination, thoughtfulness, his energy, his mischievous smile, and his deep love of wildlife and wild places."