Harrison Ford
Harrison Ford suffered an injury during filming at Pinewood Studios. REUTERS

Harrison Ford has been injured while filming the new Star Wars movie.

The 71-year-old star suffered an injury to his ankle while filming in London's Pinewood Studios. It is believed a hydraulic garage door fell and hit him causing a fracture to his ankle.

He was airlifted to a hospital in Oxford for treatment.

A spokesman for Thames Valley Police said: "Just after 5, officers were called to Pinewood Studios. A 71-year-old man was injured in an incident believed to involve a garage door.

"He was airlifted to John Radcliffe Hospital where his injuries are not thought to be life threatening. The Health and Safety Executive have been informed & will look into it."

Disney spokesman Paul Roeder said filming will continue while Ford recovers.

The star of the first three Star Wars films, the actor reprises his role as Han Solo in the latest episode in the Star Wars franchise, episode VII. It is nearly 40 years since Ford starred in the first Star Wars film in 1977.

Mark Hamill, 62, who played the original Luke Skywalker, and Carrie Fisher, 57, who played Princess Leia, will also be reprising their roles for the eagerly anticipated film.

Lord of the Rings star Andy Serkis and Oscar winning actress Lupita Nyong'o will also join the cast.

While the plot remains a closely guarded secret, it has been revealed that the story will take place 30 years after the end of "Return of the Jedi."

Directed by JJ Abrams Star Wars Episode VII is scheduled for release in December 2015.