BP Ford number one driver Marcus Gronholm has crashed out of the inaugural Rally Ireland.

Gronholm, who was running third overall following SS3 - just 4 seconds behind rally leader, Sebastien Loeb, went off towards the end of the 20.57 kilometre-run through Lough Gill 1.

The Finn's Focus RS WRC car was heavily damaged in the incident and although he and co-driver, Timo Rautiainen were not injured, Marcus momentarily lost consciousness.

The stage was subsequently stopped so that an ambulance could reach the two-time world champion.

Both Marcus and Timo were then taken to Sligo General Hospital for a check-up.

It is not yet known if he will be well enough to re-start on Saturday under the SupeRally format – nor is it known if the car can be repaired either.

More to follow as we get it...