Bluestar statement after crash leaves pedestrian in very serious condition

Bluestar has issued a statement after a pedestrian was hit by one of its buses in Southampton.

The man, who is in his 50s, has been taken to hospital in a life-threatening condition following a crash in Bevois Valley Road this morning.

The road has been closed in both directions between its junctions with Foster Road and Kingsbury Road and will remain closed for some time.

The bus company says the circumstances of the crash, which involved a red, double decker bus, remain "unclear" and it is working with police to find out what happened.

Police at the scene of the crash (Image: Newsquest)

Richard Tyldsley, Bluestar general manager, said: “A Bluestar bus was involved in an incident with a pedestrian earlier today on Bevois Valley Road.

“At this stage, the circumstances behind the event are unclear but the safety of our colleagues, passengers and other road users is a high priority and we are cooperating fully with the Police as they carry out their investigation.

“Our primary concerns right now are supporting our driver, and for the wellbeing of the pedestrian involved. We understand the pedestrian is currently in a very serious condition in hospital. Our thoughts are with them and their family.

“We wish them a full and speedy recovery and will be monitoring their progress very carefully.”

Police were called to the crash just before 9am.

They are appealing for witnesses to come forward as "lots of people" were in the area at the time.

Former Special Constable Stephen Miller, 51, of Foster Road, said: "I was indoors when I heard sirens. I'm on my way to the South Hants Hospital and just happened to look up the road, which is when I saw the bus. I just feel sorry for the driver."

Anyone with information is asked to contact police as possible online or on 101 quoting 44230388465.