Bid to grab boy of ten

Police last night appealed for witnesses to the attempted abduction of a ten-year-old boy in Loftus, east Cleveland.

The boy was walking in the West Road area at 3.50pm yesterday when a man grabbed his arm. He broke free and was chased by the man before managing to get away. The attacker, described as bald and 5ft 8in, wore a black jumper and grey trousers. He was seen getting into a white van. Anyone with information should call police on (01287) 633531.

crash tragedy: A 54-year-old man from Esh Winning, County Durham, died yesterday after his Ford Transit pick-up left the road near Burnhope at about midday. The man was certified dead at the scene. Any witnesses should call police on 0191-386 4929.