A WITNESS to a car smash told how passers-by showed no regard for their safety as they fought to rescue two men.

Maurene Ward told how a black Honda CRX convertible had overturned on the A68, near Bishop Auckland, County Durham, on Sunday afternoon.

She said: "It was horrific. I really thought they would be dead, but one man managed to crawl out from underneath.

"The other was trapped by his arm. There was petrol and compact discs from the car everywhere, but everyone was marvellous.

"They just ran over and lifted the car without thinking about themselves. One girl even crawled underneath.''

Mrs Ward said she thought the car had hit a tree before overturning. She said: "The car was a mess. They are really lucky to be alive."

Station Officer David Turnbull, of Durham Fire Brigade's community fire safety department, said: "The fire brigade always strives to respond as early as possible to calls.

"But it is human nature not to stand by after a fire or an accident, and to have a go at helping those in need.

"In this situation, it would seem people have helped those injured in the accident and are to be commended for their efforts.

"I would encourage people to always approach with care, not putting themselves in unnecessary danger.