A DRIVER is tonight in a critical condition after an accident which closed the northbound A1 this evening.

The VW Golf clipped the kerb of the central reservation before veering across the carriageway and hitting a tree.

The car broke into two pieces, with the front end coming to rest on its roof.

The accident - which did not involve any other vehicle - happened shortly before 4pm on the A1 northbound, about half a mile north of the A197 junction near Morpeth, Northumberland.

Northumbria Police said tonight that the identity of the driver, who is seriously injured, has not yet been positively identified.

He was taken to Newcastle General Hospital where his condition was decsribed as critical.

The A1 northbound was closed for some time as police investigated the accident and the wreckage was cleared.

Anyone who may have witnessed the accident should call Motor Patrol Bedlington on 01661 863781.