A MAN has suffered two suspected broken legs after being run over by his own van.

The 46-year-old was working on the vehicle when got up to move a wheelie bin.

However, its handbrake snapped and the van rolled onto him, trapping him underneath.

He had to be freed by firefighters.

The man was rushed to Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary by ambulance. An air ambulance was despatched but not used.

It is believed the man suffered two broken legs and injuries to his chest. However, it is not thought his life is in danger.

The runaway van also struck an unoccupied Ford Fiesta parked nearby.

The incident happened on Aintree Drive, in Shotley Bridge, County Durham, at about 5.30pm last night. Firefighters were stood down at about 6.45pm.