TWO people have been airlifted to hospital with serious injuries, following an aircraft crash this afternoon.

Emergency services were called the scene of a light aircraft crash just outside of Bembridge Airport at 3.50pm.

The pilot and passenger, a man and a woman, have sustained serious injuries and have been taken to Southampton General by air ambulance.

The aircraft was spotted by another pilot as he left Sandown Airport this afternoon. A helicopter pilot, who had just arrived at Sandown Airport, offered to fly to the crash site to see if he could help.

He landed next to the downed aircraft, making it easier for Isle of Wight emergency services to spot them.

Inspector Adam Henderson-Parish, said: "This afternoon we have worked closely with our colleagues from the fire and ambulance services. We remain at the scene and are liaising with the Air Accidents Investigation Branch."

Sandown Road is closed between Hill Way and the Propeller Inn. A road closure is also in place on Long Land Shute. It is expected that the roads will shortly be re-opened.