Top Gear star Freddie Flintoff was reportedly left with horrifying face injuries for 45 minutes after his car flipped over in a deadly crash.
The dad-of-four reportedly had to endure a painful wait for an air ambulance while medics scrambled to locate a medical stretcher for him.
Freddie was travelling at the speed of 130mph without the car being fitted with an airbag, according to The Sun.
READ MORE: Future of Freddie Flintoff’s BBC shows ‘confirmed’ after horror Top Gear crash
It is believed he suffered from injuries to the jaw and “broke some ribs” whilst he was filming an episode for the BBC series last December.
The 45-year-old is believed to have not been wearing a helmet at the test track in Dunsfold Park Aerodrome, Surrey.
(Image: PA)
A source told the publication: “The BBC has been keen to keep a lid on the extent of Freddie’s injuries for obvious reasons.
“But essentially the car turned over at speed, and Freddie — who also broke some ribs — understandably is traumatised by the whole thing.”
They added that he has been “incredibly brave” and is “getting stronger” during his recovery.
The ex-cricket star was believed to be reviewing a car for the show at the time of the crash.
(Image: BBC/Lee Brimble)
It is understood that the temperatures plummeted to 0C on the Surrey test track.
Freddie was airlifted to hospital after the near-fatal crash.
It was reported that a crew member, who was positioned in the passenger seat, also endured injuries.
The source continued: “Certain members of the crew just feel like insufficient checks and measures were made in the run-up.
“The sense is that some of the driving stunts were being done on the cheap in order to save money. Lessons have been learned.”
(Image: PA)
The BBC declined to comment on the latest allegations.
The broadcaster previously said: “In March we concluded our investigation into the accident at the Top Gear Test Track in Surrey, which regrettably injured presenter Freddie Flintoff.
“We have sincerely apologised to Freddie and continue to support him with his recovery. A health and safety review of the show is underway, in line with our procedures.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
