AN ELDERLY man has been rushed to hospital with serious injuries following a crash in Bickleigh.

The crash happened outside The Trout Inn on the A396 near Bickleigh, involving a double decker bus and a Nissan car.

It is reported that the car left the highway and went into a hedge, trapping the male driver, who was released by fire crews. 

The road is currently closed and paramedics are still on the scene treating passengers from the bus.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: "We were called just before 2pm to reports of a collision involving a double decker bus and a car.

"The driver of the car, an elderly man in his 60s, was airlifted to Derriford Hospital in Plymouth, his injuries were initially considered to be potential life-threatening but have now been categorised as serious.

"People on the bus had minor back and head injuries and were assessed by paramedics on the scene."

Two fire engines from Tiverton and Cullompton were sent along with the heavy rescue vehicle from Middlemoor. 

The male driver was eventually released, using three sets of hydraulic cutting equipment and small tools, into the hands of paramedics.

The road was closed but has since reopened.