A driver has been found guilty of grievous bodily harm after an argument over a packet of cigarettes led to tragedy.

Alan Rees was also found guilty by jury at Teesside Crown Court of attempting to pervert the course of justice and dangerous driving.

Rakvinder Singh Garcha was left brain damaged when he fell from the bonnet of Mr Rees's Vauxhall Astra on March 28. They had argued outside the Faverdale convenience store, in Bates Avenue, Darlington, and Mr Rees allegedly carried Mr Garcha 40 yards on the bonnet of his car before he fell off.

Mr Rees, 38, of Auckland Avenue, Darlington had pleaded not guilty to causing grievous bodily harm, dangerous driving and attempting to pervert the course of justice.

His wife, Elizabeth, 39, has already pleaded guilty to perverting the course of justice.

The case was adjourned for reports and the pair will be sentenced at a later date. .