A MOTORIST was cut free from his car by firefighters after a crash on the A68 at Burtree, near Darlington, last night.

The accident, involving three vehicles, happened just after 6pm, near Burtree Gate.

The 25-year-old driver of a Seat Leon car was taken to Darlington Memorial Hospital after becoming trapped in his vehicle.

His injuries were initially thought to be serious but were later found not to be.

Police want to speak to the driver of a blue Citroen Saxo - believed to be a VTR/VTS model - who was involved in the accident but drove off without leaving any details.

Inspector Peter Foster, of Durham Police, said the Saxo was about to turn right from Burtree Lane on to the A68.

A Vauxhall Vectra travelling south on the A68 swerved to avoid it, crossed the traffic island and hit the Leon, which was turning left on to the A68 on the opposite side of the road.

Anyone who saw the crash or with information about the Saxo driver is asked call 0845 6060 365 and ask for the accident unit.