A BASINGSTOKE teenager had to be helped to safety last night when his car ploughed through railings and into a river.

The 18-year-old was driving a silver Fiat Punto which burst through a large stretch of railings leaving the front end submerged in at least four foot of water.

Police say they received a 999 call and went to the scene where they managed to help guide the man to safety via the boot of his car.

A spokesman for Hampshire police said they assisted him to safety by getting him to climb over the seats to the back where he was freed.

The drama unfolded just before midnight in Fair Oak Road, Bishopstoke, just opposite the Toby Carvery restaurant.

Paramedics were called to the scene where they treated the teenager, before taking him to hospital.

The Highways Agency was also called to assess the damage once the stricken car was removed from the water.

Around 20 metres of railings have been damaged.