POLICE accident investigators have appealed for witnesses to a crash in which two people were injured - one seriously - yesterday.

The crash involving a Vauxhall Corsa, Ford Maverick and Scania articulated lorry happened at 9.45am on the B6296 road at Cadger Bank, Lanchester, County Durham - about a quarter of a mile south west of the B6301 Ford Lane.

A police spokesman said: "It appears the Ford Maverick was travelling easterly when it was confronted by the Corsa which was parked near a bend.

"The Ford driver braked and skidded, before colliding head on with the lorry, which was travelling in the opposite direction."

The 82-year-old man who was driving the Corsa was unhurt and his vehicle undamaged.

The 31-year-old Maverick driver, was cut free form the wreckage by fire crews and taken to University Hospital of North Durham with serious leg and chest injuries. His condition was last night described as stable.

The 56-year-old lorry driver suffered cuts and bruises, but declined hospital treatment. The road was closed for more than two hours.

Witnesses are asked to call 0191-386 4929.