A SMASH involving two cars has left a Hambleden pensioner dead and his wife in a critical condition.

Allan and Ursula Guturie, of Skirmett Road, Hambleden, had been driving along the A40 at the junction of Chipps Hill, in Piddington, near Stokenchurch, when there was a collision with a Vauxhall Astra.

Mr Guturie, who was driving a Mercedes, was certified dead at the scene on Thursday, January 4 at around 7.57pm and his wife and the 26-year-old driver of the Astra, from Stokenchurch, had to be rushed to Wycombe Hospital by ambulance.

Firefighters from Wycombe had to be called out to cut one of the victims from the wreckage.

A hospital spokesman described Mrs Guturie's condition as "improving".

Police are appealing for witnesses and would urge anyone who has any information to call PC Mike Hamlin on (01494) 465888.