TWO men were taken to hospital after a head-on collision between two vehicles in the early hours of yesterday.

Police are investigating the accident, in County Durham, which involved a car and a Royal Mail delivery van. Officers closed the A691 for two hours after being called out at 2.30am.

An 18-year-old man from Lanchester was taken to the University Hospital in Durham City with internal injuries and broken ribs. The 37-year-old van driver, from Consett, was also taken to the hospital with a broken arm and leg injuries.

The accident happened about half a mile west of Lanchester. Both vehicles were badly damaged. Witnesses are asked to contact police on 0191-386 4929