ACCIDENT investigators are making inquiries into the death of a man who died while being followed by police.

The victim was identified as Mark Collins, 22, of Stanley Gardens, Consett, County Durham.

Police said he was at the wheel of a Vauxhall Nova which collided with a parked vehicle before hitting a tree in Blackhill, Consett.

Two police officers, who were following the Nova in their patrol car, gave him first aid. Ambulance paramedics then tried to revive him, but Mr Collins was confirmed dead on arrival at the University Hospital of North Durham.

The coroner has been informed, and the incident has been referred to the Police Complaints Authority.