A CAR which failed to stop for police ended up involved in a four-vehicle crash on the A19 in County Durham.

Police are appealing for information after the crash in the Houghton area.

It happened at just before 8.15pm, on Friday, September 26, on the A19 southbound between the A690 and B1404 junction.

"The circumstances of the crash are still being investigated. However, through initial enquiries, officers have established a Fiat Punto travelling north on the A19 had failed to stop for Durham Police officers," a spokeswoman for Northumbria Police said.

"A short time later, and for reasons yet to be established, the car lost control and crossed the central barrier, colliding with a Renault Megane and Citroen C3 travelling on the opposite carriageway.

"Passengers in the Punto, a woman and two men, were all taken to Sunderland Royal Hospital. One man has since been discharged with minor injuries. The other man has a broken arm and the woman minor injuries. Both remain in hospital.

"The driver of the Citroen C3, a man, was taken to the same hospital. His injuries are not believed to be life threatening. He also remains in hospital."

No-one else was injured as a result of the crash.

The A19 southbound and northbound around the crash was closed and diversions put in place. The roads reopened around 4am.

"Two men, aged 34 and 27, and a 31-year-old woman have all been arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and bailed," the spokeswoman said.

Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to contact police on 101, extension 69191, quoting log number 1303 26/09/14, or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.