A WOMAN was killed and her passenger injured after their car collided with a tractor this afternoon.

The fatal accident took place at about 3.10pm on the north bound carriageway of the A19 near Hartlepool, about half a mile south of the Ron Perry Garage.

A black Vauxhall Corsa collided with a HGV tractor and trailer unit, killing the driver.

The female passenger was taken to the University Hospital of North Tees with injuries that werent life-threatening.

Both women are believed to be from the Durham area.

Anyone who witnessed the accident should contact PC John Roberts on 01642-326326 quoting reference U100373.