A TEENAGER who was killed after being hit by a lorry on the A1 was a first year Durham University student.

Askar Abilpanov, 19, was from Kazakhstan but moved to the region to study at Durham University this year.

The teenager, who was a finance student at John Snow College, in Stockton, died after being hit by an HGV in the early hours of Saturday morning.

He was hit by the vehicle on the northbound carriageway half-a-mile south of Bowburn Services at Junction 61 at around 1.55am on Saturday.

Police say the reason Mr Abilpanov was on the road is unclear.

Professor Carolyn Summerbell, principal of John Snow College, said: “Askar was a first year finance student and a well-liked member of John Snow College.

“Although he had only been a student here for a short time he was already an active member of the university community.

“Askar’s death has deeply saddened everyone connected with John Snow College and the wider university. He will be greatly missed.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very sad time and we are offering them our full support.”

Durham Police is investigating the crash and is appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or saw a red coloured heavy goods vehicle or a pedestrian on the motorway to come forward.

A Durham University spokesperson said: “The circumstances of the incident are being investigated by police and we are supporting them in their inquiries.”

Witnesses are requested to call Durham Police on 101 quoting reference number DHM-19112016-0030.