Alesha Dixon's brother hospitalised after serious car crash

It has been confirmed that the brother of Britain's Got Talent judge, Alesha Dixon, has been involved in a serious car crash.

Although Alesha has yet to release a statement, representatives of the pop star have confirmed to Digital Spy that the accident took place.

A national newspaper has also reported that Alesha's brother, John Lonergan, has been hospitalised following the crash that left his best friend, James Bartell, dead.

John was in the passenger seat of his friend's car when James lost control in Welwyn, Hertfordshire at the weekend.

A source close to Alesha told the national newspaper, "She is sick with worry about her brother John. He is badly injured but is lucky to be alive.

"He has several broken ribs and a broken collar bone. It’s expected he will be in hospital for some time."

Following the crash the police are appealing for witnesses, with Hertfordshire PC Jackie Lister saying in a statement,

"I am appealing to anyone who witnessed the collision or the events leading up to it, to please contact me.

"I am conscious that many drivers these days have dash cams fitted to their vehicles and may have captured the vehicle being driven immediately prior to the collision.

"If anyone has footage, this may prove useful to the investigation. Please contact me on Hertfordshire Constabulary's non-emergency number 101 so that I can review it."

Fans of the former Mis-Teeq member have come forward on Twitter to express their support for Alesha and her the family saying, 'Sending my love and sincere thoughts to @AleshaOfficial and your family!' with another saying, 'Our thoughts are with you'.

Alesha Dixon recently became involved with a brand new campaign to help educate, inspire and build confidence in young women called #LikeAGirl. She has also filled in for Nicole Sherzinger on the panel of the new series of The X Factor in Manchester and later in Edinburgh for Sharon Osbourne.

Our thoughts are with Alesha and her family.

• Alesha Dixon