A driver has been released without charge after a horror crash that left one person dead.

A man in his 30's died on Friday (January 27) after an early morning collision on the A167. 

Emergency services were called to the scene between J59 of the A1(M) at Darlington and the roundabout with St Andrew’s Way, in Newton Aycliffe at around 5.38am following reports of a serious collision.

Read more: A167 Aycliffe crash: Tragedy as pedestrian dies in collision

The road was closed for several hours to allow emergency services to investigate the fatal collision.

On Friday, a spokesperson for Durham Constabulary said: "A man has sadly died following a collision on the A167 this morning. The pedestrian, who was in his 30s, is believed to have been hit by a car just before 6am near Newton Park Services.

"Emergency services attended but sadly the man was pronounced dead at the scene. His family have been informed. The road was closed for a number of hours as officers began their investigation into the incident.

"Officers are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident, in particular a driver who reported the collision but did not stop at the scene, to call 101 quoting incident reference number 37 of January 27."

Following the crash, officers from Durham Police arrested a 28-year-old man on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. 

But the force confirmed on Thursday (February 2) that the man has been released without charge.

The identity of the victim remains unknown at this time, but the police are supporting his family.