Part of a holiday park on the Isle of Wight has been cordoned off after a plane crashed.

Thanks to heroes on the site, a major disaster was averted.

The incident occurred at around 2.23pm, with reports indicating that the small aircraft took off from Bembridge Airport, banked, and clipped a chimney before crashing near chalets on a site filled with Easter holiday visitors.

On crashing, the plane burst into flames and nearby people rushed to pull the two occupants from plane before it burst into flames, said Insp Alex Dale, local policing inspector.

Fortunately, one person suffered only minor injuries, thanks to the quick actions of the bystanders who helped rescue the occupants before the fire spread.

Insp Dale said: "The people who rescued the pilots were heroic, without question.

"There were two people in the plane who needed help, without regard to their own personal safety.

"They were very brave. It was a wonderful thing to do.

"Their actions undoubtedly saved their lives."

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary confirmed they received a call at 2.23pm regarding the crash.

A spokesperson said: "Officers are at the scene as well as colleagues from the fire and ambulance services.

"The plane had two people on board.

"At this time it is understood one person has suffered minor injuries.

"The holiday park remains open."

Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene, with one observer recalling: "I felt a shockwave, then heard a loud bang and saw lots of black smoke."

Images from the scene show the wreckage of the plane, with emergency services working diligently to manage the situation.

The Air Accident Investigation Bureau has been notified and will conduct an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Meanwhile, police have cordoned off Hillway Road, and diversions have been implemented for local bus routes due to the ongoing emergency response.

As the situation develops, authorities are appealing for witnesses to come forward, using reference number 44250160063.

Emergency services continue to assess the scene.