BBC investigates Hammond crash

The BBC has launched an investigation into the incident that left Top Gear presenter Richard Hammond in a critical condition whilst filming scenes for the show yesterday.

In a statement this afternoon, the broadcaster announced: "The circumstances of this accident will be fully investigated by the BBC, and this process began last night. We will, of course, be fully co-operating with any investigation by the police and the Health and Safety Executive."

"We are pleased to hear that Richard has improved slightly overnight, but we continue to be concerned about his condition and we are keeping in touch with his family."

There has been much speculation about the nature of the crash involving Hammond, with early reports suggesting that he may have been attempting to break the British land speed record at the time. However, the BBC believe that "it would be inappropriate to comment on the details" of the incident until their investigation is over.

Hammond is currently in a 'critical, but stable' condition at Leeds Hospital.