AN 18-year-old man was taken to hospital today with potentially serious injuries after being ejected from his car and being struck by a falling telephone pole.

AN 18-year-old man was taken to hospital today with potentially serious injuries after being ejected from his car and being struck by a falling telephone pole.

A rapid response car, an ambulance and the air ambulance were dispatched to the scene, in Sladbury's Lane, Clacton, after the incident was reported at about 2.30pm.

Aircrew Paramedic Roo Eason said: “The car had collided with a telephone pole and rolled over, landing on its wheels but sustaining extensive damage.

“The driver was ejected from the vehicle and was struck by the pole, which broke off at about six feet above the ground.

“Fire crews freed him by lifting the pole away. We examined the patient, who was believed to be from the local area, and found he'd suffered rib injuries and suspected internal injuries.

“We fully immobilised him using a neck collar and spinal board and stabilised his condition at the scene before airlifting him to Colchester General Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

“The patient remained fully conscious, but it's impossible to say how serious his injuries will prove to be.”