A MAN has suffered head injuries after crashing into a bridge in Burghfield earlier today. 

The car crashed into the bridge in Burghfield Road, between Southcote and Burghfield near the Canning Man pub.

The road is currently closed in both directions.

Emergency services are on the scene.

A South Central Ambulance spokesman said "We received a 999 call with the caller reporting that a car had crashed into the bridge on Burghfield Road outside The Cunning Man pub.

"We sent an ambulance to the scene and the crew reported that the male driver had sustained a head injury and was also possibly suffering a medical episode.

"After initial treatment at the scene he has now been taken to the Royal Berkshire Hospital for further assessment."

Reading Buses have said their Lime 2/2a will be diverted via A33, Mereoak Lane, The Street following normal route to Hatch Gate in both directions.

Thames Valley Police officers are on the scene and have said there is no estimated time-scale of when the bridge will reopen. 

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service undertook a two-hour rescue operation. 

A spokesman said: "At 12:26pm on Tuesday, 15 October, we received a call to reports of a collision between one vehicle and the bridge on Burghfield Road, Reading.

"Crews from Caversham Road, Whitley Wood, Wokingham Road and the Heavy Rescue Unit from Dee Road Fire Stations were sent to the scene, alongside one Officer.

"Crews assisted Thames Valley Police at the scene and were in attendance for just under two hours."

A TVP spokesman said: "Thames Valley Police is on the scene of a road traffic collision on Burghfield Road, near to the Cunning Man pub.

"The road is closed as there has been some damage to the bridge, which is being assessed by engineers.

"There is not currently an estimate as to when the road will re-open.

"The man injured is receiving treatment, but his injuries are not thought to be serious."