A PENSIONER is in a critical condition this morning after being struck by a bus.

Phylis McDonnell was airlifted to Newcastle General Hospital after suffering severe head injuries in the accident in Durham City.

The 80-year-old, from the Gore Hill Estate, in Thornley, was struck by an Arriva single-decker bus, which was travelling at low speed as it pulled away from a bus stop close to the Majestic Bingo Hall on Sherburn Road shortly before 5.30pm on Wednesday.

The road was closed for almost two hours following the accident.

Durham Police are appealing for any witnesses to contact the accident unit on 0845 6060365.