A YOUNG boy was seriously injured this afternoon when the car he was travelling in hit a train.

It is understood the car careered off the A69 in Northumberland and landed on the railway line.

The accident happened on the Tyne Valley railway line between Greenhead and Haltwhistle at about 4.35pm today (Wednesday, December 5).

Northumbria Police said the vehicle may have received a glancing blow from a passing train.

The boy was airlifted to the Royal Victoria Hospital in Newcastle.

A British Transport Police (BTP) spokesman said: "BTP officers were called to the rail line in Greenhead, Northumberland, on Wednesday, December 5 following a report of a train striking a car.

"The incident was reported to BTP at 4.35pm and was also attended by colleagues from Northumbria Police.

"The train involved, a Carlisle to Tollerton freight train service, remained upright and on the tracks.

"A young boy was removed from the car, a black Land Rover, and has been airlifted to Newcastle Royal Victoria Infirmary.

"Three people are being treated at the scene for their injuries.

"Officers are working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

"The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) has been informed."

It is understood the train stopped further down the line and was not badly damaged. No-one on board was injured.

The road was closed and diversions were put in place.