AT least two of those hurt in the fatal RAF helicopter crash are today fighting for their lives in hospital.

A spokeswoman for South Tees Hospitals NHS Trust said two of the victims were in a critical condition before being airlifted to James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.

Five others were confirmed as being in a stable condition while the condition of the other three is not being released.

Two people died in the crash near Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire, at about 9pm last night.

Speaking from the crash site, RAF squadron leader Rodney Burgess from RAF Leeming in North Yorkshire said: "The fuselage of the helicopter remains intact but two parts, including the tail boom, have snapped off.

"Consequently there are three parts to the helicopter wreckage.

"The damage is extensive but I cannot speculate on the cause of the accident.

"At the moment a methodical invesigation is being carried out and it could take some time.

"Our sympathies go to the families and we are very saddened by what has happened."

Witnesses reported hearing the Puma helicopter misfiring before it turned on its side.

Three people on board were RAF crew and the nine others were Army personnel.

The aircraft, based at RAF benson in Oxfordshire, had been working with the Army at Catterick Garrison.