FIREFIGHTERS had to cut the roof off a car which was used to race an injured man to Bradford Royal Infirmary after a multi-vehicle crash.

The car - a white Volkswagen - had not been involved in the smash, which happened on Leeds Road, Thornbury, at about 12.40am today.

But a fire service spokesman said firefighters were forced to cut its roof off while it was parked outside the hospital's accident and emergency entrance because the man had suffered suspected serious spinal injuries in the four-vehicle pile-up.

"We helped a guy out of car that had been driven from the accident to BRI," said the spokesman.

"The car was parked right outside A&E.

"We took the roof off the car and took him out. This car had not been involved in the accident, there had been no damage to it."

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Police said the collision involved a white Volvo lorry, a blue BMW M5, a grey Audi A4 and a silver Vauxhall Corsa, and happened close to the junction with Wensleydale Road.

A 22-year-old man from Bradford was taken to Leeds General Infirmary with internal injuries, which were not believed to be life-threatening.

Police also said a 21-year-old man from Bradford suffered a broken collarbone and ankle injuries.

There were not believed to be any other injuries to anyone else involved in the crash.

Leeds Road was closed until 7.20am so the vehicles could be removed.

Police want any witnesses to the crash to contact the Safer Roads and Neighbourhood Support team on 101.