A TEENAGER is fighting for his life after being struck by a car as he attempted to cross the A19.

The 17-year-old, from Peterlee, County Durham, was among a group of youths who were running across the dual carriageway during rush hour.

The accident happened at 5.20pm on Friday, half a mile north of the Lowhills roundabout on the A19, near Peterlee.

The youth, who has not been named, was hit by a Peugeot car travelling north, driven by a woman from Newton- on-Ouse, near York.

He was rushed to Sunderland Royal Hospital, suffering serious head, leg and internal injuries. His condition was described last night as critical.

The driver of the car was uninjured but badly shaken. The road was closed for 90 minutes after the accident.

Last night, police appealed for witnesses to come forward. Anyone with information is asked to contact Durham Police accident unit, on 0191-375 2159.