A MAN died following a multiple vehicle accident on the A66 on Friday morning, police have confirmed.

The crash happened at 7.45am on the eastbound carriageway and involved a lorry and a horsebox.

The driver of the horsebox, Tom Harker, was apronounced dead at the scene, Durham Police confirmed.

In a statement his family said: “It is with deepest regret that we announce the death of Thomas (Tom) Harker who was involved in a tragic road traffic collision on the A66 near Sadberge today.

“He was a much loved husband and father and will be sadly missed.

“We wish to thank everyone for their support and ask to be left to grieve in peace.”

The male driver of the lorry was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

A blue Ford Fiesta, a dark blue Volkswagen Passat and a white van were also damaged during the collision.

The road was closed in both directions for much of the morning but the westbound carriageway reopened later. 

The eastbound carriageway remained closed from the A1150 Darlington Road (Darlington) to Mill Lane (Long Newton).

The accident involved five vehicles, including a lorry which crashed through a wall.

Two fire engines, an emergency responder, the air ambulance, and several police cars were called to the scene.

A diversion was put in place from the Little Burdon roundabout and across the A67 before rejoining at Long Newton.

A spokesperson for Arriva North-East said bus services were diverted between Darlington and Hartburn.

They added: "Significant delays are expected to the services due to heavy traffic on the diversion. Apologies for any inconvenience."

A spokesperson for Durham Police said: "A man has died following a collision on the A66 near Sadberge this morning.

"It happened at 7.45am on the eastbound carriageway and involved a lorry and a horsebox.

"The driver of the horsebox was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

"The male driver of the lorry was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

"A blue Ford Fiesta, a dark blue Volkswagen Passat and a white van were also damaged during the collision.

"The road was closed to allow collision investigators to work at the scene. The westbound carriageway has since reopened.

"Witnesses are asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident number 46 of April 26.

"Officers are also keen to hear from anyone who may have dashcam footage of the collision."