Helicopter crashes into field near Doncaster

A helicopter has crashed in a field in Doncaster, police have confirmed.

Emergency services were called to Ings Lane, Bentley, at about 10:15 GMT.

The aircraft had taken off from Retford Gamston Airport, in Nottinghamshire, shortly before it crashed.

There has been no confirmation of any injuries and South Yorkshire Police said the road has been closed.

A force spokesperson said officers and emergency services colleagues are at the scene.

They added: "Please avoid the area and plan an alternative route where possible. Further updates will be provided when they are available."

Retford Gamston Airport said in a short statement: "We can confirm an aircraft based here, operated by an onsite tenant, has been involved in an incident.

"We've no further information at this time."

The BBC's Liz Roberts is at the scene and said a large police cordon had been put in place and a private ambulance has attended.

"About 500m down the lane from where I'm standing I can see more police activity, by the side of the field the helicopter crashed in," she said.

"The scene is no longer accessible. There's a no-fly zone for drones and the road has been closed by the Refood bioenergy site."

Lee Needham, who lives in the area, said the crash site was close to houses, train tracks, industrial units and electrical pylons.

"Whoever was piloting the helicopter more than likely saved numerous lives," he said.