Pictured: Royal Navy aviator killed after Merlin helicopter 'suffered double engine failure' and ditched into the Channel during night flying exercise

The Royal Navy aviator who died after a military helicopter ditched in the English Channel during a night flying exercise has been pictured for the first time.

Lt Rhodri Leyshon was aboard a Merlin Mk4 which plunged into the water on Wednesday evening after it suffered a ‘double engine failure’. 

The helicopter, which had a crew of three, was conducting mission rehearsals with the aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth when the tragic incident occurred. 

Lt Leyshon’s family has paid tribute to a ‘talented’ and ‘passionate’ man who was ‘immeasurably loved’.  

They said in a statement: ‘Rhod was so immeasurably loved by his parents, siblings, partner, friends and family and he was devoted to them. Our lives will never be the same without him.

Lt Rhodri Leyshon was aboard a…