A MOTORIST was airlifted to hospital after a serious crash on the A177 near Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield, County Durham.

The accident happened at about 6pm on the Sunday with the victim suffering serious injuries.

Several emergency vehicles were at the scene.

A witness to the accident, Matty Scott, said: "One vehicle was turning into Sedgefield from the A177 into the path of another heading south towards the racecourse.

"There were bits of debris all over the road."

The accident blocked the A177 for a period, although it was later re-opened.

Meanwhile, a dog walker was taken to hospital after being hit by a vehicle in Heighington, near Darlington.

The accident, at about 1pm, happened near the George and Dragon pub in the village.

No further details have been released by police at this time.