THE PRINCIPAL of Exmouth Community College is recovering well after being involved in a horrific car crash in which he had to be cut free and airlifted to hospital.

Tony Alexander, who has worked as head of one of the country’s largest secondary schools since 2002, is resting at home after being discharged from Dorset County Hospital following the incident.

Mr Alexander, who sustained broken ribs and a number of broken bones as a result of the three-vehicle smash, was travelling on the A31 near Dorchester in January at the time.

His silver BMW coupe was in a head-on collision involving a Renault Megane. A white Peugeot van then ran into the back of the school principal’s vehicle.

Mr Alexander’s injuries were initially described as serious.

Since the incident, teachers, governors and students at the school, as well as other members of the Exmouth community, have sent him flowers, get-well cards and wishes of a speedy recovery in abundance.

Describing his current condition, Elizabeth Lee, chairman of governors, said: “He is now at home and recovering well.

“He is awaiting the results of X-rays.”

Mrs Lee said it was not known how long it would take Mr Alexander to make a full recovery and return to work. “He is itching to get back to the school but he has people all around telling him to be patient,” she added.