A high-powered car smashed into the side of an 18th Century thatched cottage as a couple watched TV inside.

A red BMW lost control on slippery roads and ploughed into Garry Bedrich's home on the A268 at Barnet's Hill, Peasmarsh, near Rye, at 8pm yesterday.

Mr Bedrich was watching television with his wife and says they could have been killed if they been sitting just 6ft away.

The BMW driver, in his 20s and driving alone, clambered from the wreckage, dazed but without serious injury.

The smash left the end of the Grade II listed property unsafe and Mr and Mrs Bedrich face a big bill for structural repairs.

Mr Bedrich said it was the third major accident on the narrow stretch of road in six years.

He added: "It was a disaster waiting to happen. There are 40mph limits but really I think they should be down to 30mph."

East Sussex County Council leader Peter Jones was overtaken by the BMW shortly before the accident.

He said: "About half a mile further on he must have lost control because his car ended up facing the opposite direction.

"I was pretty frightened about what I was going to find as the car was a state with steam pouring from its engine.

"But this young chap just opened the car door and stumbled out. He looked pretty dazed but luckily was without serious injury."

The BMW driver was taken to the Conquest Hospital, Hastings, for a check-up.