A man was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries after his car struck a tree.

Emergency services were called to the A20 Ashford Road near Sellindge just before 3am.

Firefighters worked closely with police, the ambulance service, a hazardous area response team and air ambulance doctors to release a man who had become trapped.

After stabilising the black Mitsubishi Shogun, crews used hydraulic rescue equipment to remove the roof, creating space for paramedics to work on the man.

The driver, in his 20s, was freed and taken to a London hospital by the air ambulance.

A spokesman said: "Kent Police was called at 2.55am on Wednesday, July 4 regarding a report that a car had struck a tree on the A20 Ashford Road near Sellindge.

"Officers, SECamb and Kent Fire and Rescue Service attended the scene where a man was treated for serious injuries.

"He was taken to a London hospital by air ambulance for further medical attention.

"The road was closed while emergency services dealt with the incident.

"One lane was reopened at around 5.47am and there is likely to be some traffic congestion while Highways teams complete repairs at the scene."

Anyone who saw the vehicle or who has dashcam footage before or during the collision is asked to call 01843 222289, quoting reference 04-0119, or the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555 111 or via their www.crimestoppers-uk.org