A DRIVER has been rescued after a lorry carrying scrap metal ran off the edge of a quay in Hartlepool.

Firefighters were called to Irvine's Quay shortly after 6pm today to reports of an HGV hanging over the edge of the jetty.

Two crews from Stranton, an emergency tender and a hydraulic platform from Middlesbrough have been despatched to the scene.

Latest reports suggets the driver has been rescued from the cab, which was hanging over the water.

Efforts are now being made to free the lorry.

The RNLI's inshore lifeboat is also at the scene offering assistance along with the police and ambulance service.