The A31 has reopened after a crash at Stag Gate last night.

Three vehicle were involved in the collision just after 11pm. The air ambulance was also sent.

Two people have been seriously injured. Three others were also hurt, although not seriously, it is understood.

The driver of a Volkswagen Jetta, a local woman in her 30s, was taken to Southampton General Hospital.

An Audi A3 left the road and came to rest in a field. The driver - aged in his 20s and from Hampshire - also sustained serious injuries and has been taken to Southampton General Hospital.

Their injuries are not life threatening, police say.

A spokesperson for Dorset Fire said the casualties involved two women, a man and a child.

They said the casualties were treated at the scene by the fire service, an off duty fire fighter and doctor as well as the ambulance and air ambulance crews.

A blue Ford Fiesta is also involved.

The driver of the Fiesta and two passengers, all from West Sussex, suffered minor injuries and were assessed at the scene before being taken to Poole Hospital.

The A31 was closed between the Roundhouse roundabout and Bere Regis to allow the emergency services to deal with the incident.

Accident investigation was also on the scene.

Police Sergeant Craig Tatton, of the traffic unit, said: "I am appealing to anyone who witnessed the collision or the driving of either vehicle prior to the incident to please contact Dorset Police. I'd also request anyone with relevant dashcam footage to get in touch.

“I wish to thank the public for their patience while the road closure is in place. This is necessary to allow emergency services to deal with the collision and for a full examination of the scene to take place.”