Two drivers have been taken to hospital following a serious two-vehicle crash in Orkney.
The crash, involving a white Mitsubishi L200 pickup and a blue Toyota Yaris, happened on the island of South Ronaldsay on the A961 shortly after 11am on Saturday.
Police, firefighters and paramedics were dispatched to the scene and the road was closed for around 15 hours.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene at 11.16am, sending two appliances from Kirkwall and St Margaret’s Hope.
Firefighters worked to make the vehicles safe before leaving the scene.
Police confirmed the vehicles were travelling in opposite directions on the route near St Margaret’s Hope when they collided, landing on their roofs.
Both male drivers were taken to Balfour Hospital for treatment.
The 53-year-old driver of the Mitsubishi L200 was later airlifted to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary where medical staff describe his condition as critical.
The 40-year-old driver of the Toyata Yaris has since been discharged from the hospital after being checked over.
Police appeal for witnesses
Orkney police officers are appealing for anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident to get in touch.
Sergeant Neil MacDonald from Road Policing said: “Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding this collision and we are appealing for anyone who may be able to assist to please come forward.
“We would like to speak to anyone who was on the road around the time of the incident, who either witnessed what happened or noticed either vehicle prior to the collision. We would particularly urge any motorists with dash-cam footage which could be of significance to get in touch.
“Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 1371 of Saturday, 17 August, 2024.”
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