A MAN who plunged six metres down a well has been rescued and airlifted to hospital.

The man is believed to have injured his spine and has been taken to Southapton General Hospital.

A doctor was lowered down the well in the village centre of Sixpenny Handley to assess the man, who said he had back and neck pain after the fall.

A spokesperson for Dorset Fire and Rescue Service said they were called at 12.27pm this afternoon and two fire engines attended the scene, as well as technical support from Poole and Weymouth fire stations.

He added: "A doctor was lowered down the well and gave the patient pain relief. The patient will then be brought up to the surface where he can be treated by paramedics."

South West Ambulance Service also attended.