A PARAGLIDER escaped with minor injuries after landing heavily near Church Stretton yesterday.

An ambulance and the Midland Air Ambulance were sent to a field near Long Mynd Gliding Club just after 4.30pm.

Ambulance press officer Claire Thomas said: “The paraglider had reportedly landed heavily near to the gliding club.

“The man, believed to be in his 50s, was complaining of pain in his lower back and buttocks.

“He was treated on scene by crews before being airlifted to Royal Shrewsbury Hospital for further assessment and treatment.”