A BOY aged three is seriously ill in hospital after being knocked down by a car.

The youngster, who has not been named, suffered a serious head injury when he was hit by a Vauxhall Corsa, on Friday, at 6.05pm.

The accident happened in Front Street, Sherburn Hill, County Durham, outside the village's community centre.

The boy, who comes from Sherburn Hill, was taken to the University Hospital of North Durham and later transferred to Newcastle General Hospital.

The car driver, a 59-year-old woman from Ludworth, was unhurt. Her passenger, a 54-year-old woman from the same village, also escaped injury.

Any witnesses are urged to contact the Durham Police's accident investigation department on 0191-386 4929.