FIREFIGHTERS from Shipston used cutting equipment to release a seriously injured woman driver from her car following a crash near Compton Verney on Sunday.

The woman was trapped in a white Rover 420 car after it left the road and collided with a tree.

After being freed by firefighters she was taken to the Horton General Hospital, Banbury, where she underwent lengthy surgery.

Her condition is said to be critical but stable.

No other vehicles were involved in the collision, which occurred at about 6.45am.

A 27-year-old man from the Banbury area, who was a passenger in the vehicle, was taken to hospital with shoulder injuries and released after treatment.

The injured woman is understood to have been staying in the Southam area.

Police investigating the incident are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Anyone who saw the collision or saw the car before it occurred is asked to telephone 01926 415415.