A man has been taken to hospital after a tipper truck crashed into a concrete pillar near the Severn Bridge.

Fire crews from Avonmouth and Temple had to use hydraulic cutting equipment to free a man from the vehicle.

Police and ambulance services were also at the scene and the casualty was conveyed to hospital shorlty after 3pm yesterday.

The M48 eastbound exit slip road at junction 1 was temporarily closed while the incident was cleared.

Neil Stradling, Station Manager for Avon Fire and Rescue Service, said: “This was a very unusual and challenging situation. The driver is believed to have left the road, crossed the grass verge and became lodged behind the concrete supporting pillars directly under the M48 carriageways.

“He appeared to strike the upright supports causing minimal damage to the bridge. This was later inspected by a structural engineer in conjunction Highways England.

“Despite significant impact to the cab, the driver miraculously only had minor injuries. On arrival, we provided access for a critical care Paramedic to assess the casualty, set up a raised access platform and removed the driver’s door.  

"Once released, the casualty was passed into the care of ambulance crews.

“We worked closely with paramedics, police and highways to make sure the incident was brought to a close swiftly and safely.

"Each service worked incredibly well and diligently and we would like to thank them for their support.”