The pilot encountered significant control difficulties soon after takeoff. He was able to manoeuvre to return to Lundy Island but had great difficulty in controlling the aircraft, particularly in pitch. Control was lost close to the ground and the aircraft was extensively damaged in the touchdown. The pilot was taken to hospital by air ambulance but was discharged the same day having sustained only minor injuries.
The loss of a securing bolt had caused the roll bearing to move aft along the wing keel. This altered the trim of the aircraft inducing a significant nose-up pitch that was only marginally controllable.
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