A teenager working at Goodwood Aerodrome has been seriously injured after a helicopter crash-landed shortly after take-off today.

The incident happened on the helipad at the airfield, near Chichester, West Sussex at 12.12pm.

It is believed the young contractor sustained serious leg injuries after being hit by a piece of flying debris as the helicopter attempted to land.

He was working at the time on the construction of the aerodrome's new aircraft hangar.

The pilot, who was the only person on board, managed to escape unhurt from the damaged craft.

A South East Coast Ambulance Service spokesman said: "Crews were called to Goodwood Aerodrome shortly before 12.15pm to reports of a man being injured by part of a helicopter.

"An 18-year-old man with serious leg injuries was taken to St Richard's Hospital in Chichester. One other person was treated at the scene."

Sussex Police also attended. A spokesman for Goodwood Aerodrome said: "I can confirm there was an incident at 12.12pm on the helipad at Goodwood Aerodrome.

A small helicopter crashed on take-off, the pilot was unhurt.

"A contractor working within the new hangar received a leg wound from flying debris from the helicopter."

Did you know the teen? Email Rebecca Evans or call 01273 544 519.