A 44-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and drink-driving following a crash by Chequers.

The incident occurred just after midday on Tuesday, June 25 when a car smashed into the county house’s front barriers.

Thames Valley Police also confirmed that whilst they are in the ‘early stages’ of their investigation, they revealed that ‘there is currently no evidence to suggest there was any intention to harm anyone.’

The 16th-century building is used as the Prime Minister’s residence, with the incident taking place nine days before the General Election – the UK’s first in nearly five years.

A spokesperson said: “A white Volkswagen Scirocco hit the barriers at the entrance to Chequers shortly after midday.

“The driver, a 44-year-old man from Buckinghamshire, who was the only occupant, suffered serious injuries and has been taken to hospital, where he remains.

“He has also been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and drink-driving.

“While we are still in the very early stages of our investigation, there is currently no evidence to suggest there was any intention to harm anyone.

“Anyone with information should call 101 or make a report on our website, quoting reference number 43240298901.”