A FOUR-YEAR-OLD boy was airlifted to hospital after being struck by a tractor this afternoon.

The incident took place on Devon Crescent, Birtley, County Durham, at 4pm.

The Great North Air Ambulance was called to the scene to assist the North East Ambulance Service.

An air ambulance statement said: "The boy was assessed and treated at the scene by the GNAAs team before being flown to the RVI (Royal Victoria Infirmary) for ongoing treatment."

The boy was initially thought to have multiple serious injuries, but after being assessed when he arrived at the hospital in Newcastle, it was established that his injuries are not life threatening.

A spokesman for GNAAs said it appeared that the boy had been lucky.

Northumbria Police said no further details were available at this time.