TWO people had to be airlifted to hospital from a motocross event yesterday after two separate accidents.

One spectator was hit by a motorbike after a rider lost control yesterday morning, while an 11-year-old rider sustained leg injuries in an accident later in the day.

A North-East Ambulance Service spokesman said a 25-year-old woman was flown to the University Hospital of North Tees, in Stockton, with suspected head and spinal injuries after an accident at a County Durham track, at about 11.30am.

The spokesman said she was struck on the head and neck by a motocross bike after the rider lost control while attempting a jump.

First aiders at the scene were joined by a road ambulance and a paramedic rapid response vehicle, as well as the North-East Air Ambulance.

The woman was discharged from hospital last night.

The air ambulance and two road ambulances were called out again shortly after 6pm to the tend to the child. He was flown to hospital but his condition was not known last night.

The accidents happened at Wooley Grange Farm, between Stanley Crook and Willington in County Durham, at what is thought to be the site of regular race meetings.

Durham Police said they were unaware of the accidents and also the fact that the event was taking place, although off-road events usually require little more than a courtesy call or letter by way of notification.

Neither the track's owner or the event organisers could be contacted for comment last night.

But one motocross fan said the track was well organised and affiliated to the Autocycle Union, British motorcycle sport's governing body. As such it should have the full complement of safety features demanded by the union.