The man was driving his black Peugeot 206 from Park Gate, near Fareham, along the A3051 Botley Road, when it went into the bridge over Curbridge Creek.

The driver, from Knowle, near Fareham, had to be cut free from the vehicle by Hampshire Fire and Rescue crews.

He was then taken to the neurological unit at Southampton General Hospital with serious head and leg injuries. He is having an operation today.

The incident happened at around 3.45am on Saturday. The road had to be closed for around four and a half hours to allow for recovery and a full investigation of the scene.

Police are now appealing for witnesses. Anyone who saw the collision or saw the Peugeot prior to it, is asked to contact Sergeant Wayne Voller at the Cosham Roads Policing Unit quoting Operation Melville on 0845 045 4545 or 01962 841534.

Alternatively people can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.