A CYCLIST was airlifted from the countryside this morning after suffering leg injuries.

The Great North Air Ambulance was called to Eston Nab, near Middlesbrough, at 9.30am because of the difficulty in reaching the man.

"We landed and carried the patient to the aircraft with the assistance of the road crew," a spokesman said. "Cleveland Search and rescue were also activated, but were stood down. The male patient in his 30's was airlifted to James Cook (Hospital)."