Police are searching for witnesses after two cars collided along a rural stretch of County Durham road on Thursday.

The A181 near Running Waters was closed between Silent Bank and Mill Lane yesterday following the crash as emergency services attended the scene just before 9am.

The cars, namely a silver Volkswagen Golf Estate and black Vauxhall Astra collided, forcing the latter off the road.

Police have now said they are looking for witnesses as they investigate the crash.

Durham Police said: "Police received reports of a collision on the A181 near Running Waters yesterday morning (June 13) at around 8.50am.

"The incident involved a silver Volkswagen Golf Estate and black Vauxhall Astra.

"The two vehicles are believed to have collided, causing the Vauxhall to leave the carriageway.

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"The driver of the Vauxhall sustained minor injuries.

"The Volkswagen did not remain at the scene, however the vehicle was discovered later in the day with significant damage.

"Officers investigating the incident are appealing for any witnesses, or anyone who may have dashcam footage of the vehicles, to contact DC James Bowden via james.bowden@durham.police.uk."