A COMMUNITY support police officer from Darlington is in hospital today following a collision with two vehicles near B&Q on the Whessoe Road.

The officer was injured while directing traffic outside of B&Q. This store is north of the town centre, and it is placed at the junction between North Road, Northgate and Whessoe Road. The accident occurred at teatime, on Tuesday, 23rd.

The 40-year-old woman was knocked down after a lorry collided with a ford fiesta. The car spun round and hit her. It could have had dire consequences.

On duty helping to direct traffic, following a fire at Direct Suites, 104, High Northgate, a furniture store, the officer is the only known person injured. She needed help from the emergency services. The fire crew provided first aid.

A spokesperson for the police said: “ Medical staff have confirmed that her injuries are not as serious as initially feared, but she is expected to remain in Darlington Memorial Hospital…, due to chest pains and a suspected broken arm.”

The first floor roof of the midd terrace shop is severely damaged.

The resources of the Fire Service contained the potentially lethal fire and brought it under control.

They used one jet and two firemen had breathing apparatus. In addition, there were four pumps for water relay purposes, and a ladder platform deployed.

Traffic is now back to normal.