A police officer has been arrested in connection with a hit-and-run road accident which left a teenager fighting for his life.

The 36-year-old County Durham officer is based at the force's Chester-le-Street and Durham City division.

Police chiefs have yet to make a decision on whether to suspend the PC, who has been released on bail.

The 14-year-old boy was left with serious head injuries after being knocked from his bike at 5.10pm on Saturday, at the junction of Ryhope Road and Toll Bar Road, Ryhope, Sunderland.

At the weekend, he was transferred from Sunderland Royal Hospital to Newcastle General Hospital.

Yesterday, the boy, from Seaham, East Durham, was taken off the critical list and his condition was described as stable.

A Durham Police spokesman said: "I can confirm that a 36-year-old male officer from this force was arrested and interviewed in connection with the accident.

"The officer, who was released on police bail, is not on duty at present and the issue of his suspension is the subject of an on-going review.".

Witnesses to the accident are asked to call Motor Patrols South on 0191-454 7555, extension 66391.