THE Ministry of Defence has launched an investigation after two pilots ejected from a Royal Navy Hawk jet over Cornwall.

The plane came down in a field in the St Martin area of Helston.

An MoD statement said: “Two pilots are being checked by medics after ejecting from a Royal Navy Hawk aircraft from 736 Naval Air Squadron during a flight from RNAS Culdrose.

"An investigation will begin in due course. We won’t be providing further detail at this time.”

Devon and Cornwall Police said two people at the scene were treated by ambulance crews and taken to hospital.

They tweeted: “Emergency services are currently in the St Martins area of Helston following reports of a plane crash. The public are asked to avoid the area whilst first responders attend the scene.

“Two people have been treated by ambulance at the scene and will now be taken to hospital. Their injuries are not currently thought to be life-threatening or changing."Defence Minister Johnny Mercer said the crash was due to "suspected engine failure".