A MAN has died and a woman has been taken to hospital with serious injuries following a multi-vehicle crash near Darlington.

The crash, which involved up to five vehicles including an Arriva Bus and lorry, happened at 6.45am on Tuesday, October 8, on a stretch of the A167 at Beaumont Hill.

The man, who is yet to be named by police, was confirmed dead at the scene while a woman was taken to the James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough with serious injuries.

The Northern Echo: Traffic being diverted past The White Horse pub towards the A1(M) via Burtree LaneTraffic being diverted past The White Horse pub towards the A1(M) via Burtree Lane

The Northern Echo: Police block access to the A167 from the roundabout at Junction 59 of the A1(M)Police block access to the A167 from the roundabout at Junction 59 of the A1(M)

The Northern Echo: The accident caused long delays for motorists during rush hourThe accident caused long delays for motorists during rush hour

The road was closed shortly after the incident causing delays on North Road, heading northbound and on the southbound carriageway of the A1(M).

The road was closed for several hours as accident investigators examined the scene.

Nick Knox, managing director of Arriva North East, said the firm was working with Durham Police in their investigation.

He said: "We are aware a collision took place at 06:46 this morning.

"The 5A bus was traveling on the A167 towards Darlington when a collision occurred involving three cars and a bus.

"Investigations are currently ongoing with our staff on the scene assisting the Police."

Police have since launched a dashcam footage appeal to motorists who may have been in the area at the time of the crash.

A Durham Police spokesperson said: "Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or been in the area shortly before 6.45am are asked to get in touch.

"Officers are particularly keen to speak to any passengers on a bus, which was involved in the collision, and also to receive any dash cam footage.

"Anyone with any information is asked to call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident 34 of October 8."