A WOMAN was in a critical condition in hospital last night following a crash near Bishop Auckland, in County Durham.

The accident happened on the A68 at Toft Hill outside the Wear View Diner at 12.45pm on Saturday lunchtime.

The woman, who has not been named, was driving a Renault Clio heading north when it collided with a Vauxhall Astra Estate.

The woman was taken to Darlington Memorial Hospital with serious head injuries, where her condition last night was described as critical but stable.

The male driver and female passenger of the Vauxhall were also taken to hospital with whiplash injuries and were later released.

Police, who are appealing for witnesses, said weather conditions had been poor with fog and rain reducing visibility.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Bishop Auckland Police on (01388) 603566.