RESIDENTS of a terraced house had a lucky escape after a van ploughed into it in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

Durham Police and Durham County Council’s structural engineers were called to the scene on the A68, in Toft Hill, near Bishop Auckland.

They are examing the property to see whether it is safe to remove the vehicle.

The incident happened at about 7am.

The driver of the transit van was also unhurt in the incident.

A woman, who lives near to the scene of the collision, said: "We were in bed when we heard a screech and a loud bang and when we opened the curtains and looked out the window we saw the van.

"I called 999 straight away and asked for the police, all the neighbours came outside and everyone was on their phones.

"The driver got himself out, everyone was in shock, but nobody seemed to be hurt.

"It's such a shame, especially when it's this close to Christmas.

"Apparently a lorry was in the centre of the road and I think the driver thought he was going to crash into him.

"We couldn't understand how it had happened because it's a straight road and there's no ice."

After lunchtime supporting metal bars were placed in front of the door of the house. 

  • Do you know the homeowners or is it your house? Email newsdesk@nne.co.uk or call 01325-505065.