THE region basked in sunshine yesterday, but the glorious weather prompted a busy day for the emergency services.

With temperatures hitting 20C, the region’s roads were busy with people making the most of the weather.

However, police and ambulance crews were kept busy.

A motorist died after his Nissan Micra car went through a wooden fence on the B6291 near Coxhoe, County Durham, at 7.20pm on Saturday.

It is believed David Yard, 67, from Quarrington Hill, County Durham, died of natural causes. Police are appealing for anyone with information to call them on 0345-60-60-365.

Elsewhere, a man was airlifted to hospital and the A19 was closed in both directions following a pile-up yesterday afternoon.

It is believed some vehicles had been travelling to the Stadium of Light for Sunderland’s match against Chelsea.

The accident took place near the Hilton Bridge at about 3.45pm.

Meanwhile, a motorcyclist was last night fighting for his life after he hit a metal barrier.

The crash happened just before midnight on Saturday at the junction of Waggs Lane and Hangman’s Lane, in Warden Law, Houghton-le-Spring, Wearside.

The 24-year-old was taken to Sunderland Royal Hospital and transferred to Newcastle General Hospital.

Last night, he was in a critical condition and his injuries were described by police as life-threatening.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call 03456-043-043.

A 23-year-old woman was taken by air ambulance to The James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough, following an accident on the A64 near Golden Hill, Malton, North Yorkshire, at 6.40am on Saturday.

The woman had been driving a black Ford Fiesta towards York when she was involved in an accident with a white box van travelling in the opposite direction.

The 58-year-old male van driver was taken by ambulance to York District Hospital.

Anyone with information is asked to call 01723-509555.