A THREE-year old boy was taken to hospital by air ambulance after he was hit by a car on a field by Blandford Leisure Centre.

The child was hit by a white Seat Leon towing a caravan at around 4.34pm yesterday (May 8).

The boy is said to be in a “serious but stable condition” at Southampton Hospital and his family has been informed.

A 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of driving offences and inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent.

Caravans were seen parked up at the site this morning and a cordon has been put in place to allow the emergency services to respond to the incident and for enquiries at the scene to be carried out.

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Nearby school The Blandford School on Milldown Road announced that due to the incident the entrance to the school site by the leisure centre remains closed but said that lessons will continue as normal.

Blandford Leisure Centre apologised for the disruption and said normal service will resume today.

Police are now appealing for witnesses.

Sergeant Mike Burt, of the Serious Collision Investigation Team, said: “Our thoughts are very much with the young boy who was seriously injured and their family at this time.

“We are continuing to investigate the full circumstances of this incident, and I would urge any witnesses, or anyone with relevant dashcam or other footage, to please get in touch if you have not already contacted police.

“We appreciate an incident such as this involving a young child can have a significant impact on the local community and there will be an increased policing presence in the vicinity as we continue to carry out enquiries and to provide reassurance.

“Officers can be approached by anyone with any information and concerns.

“We would like to thank members of the public for their patience and understanding while we responded to this incident and as we continue to carry out enquiries.”

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