A woman in her 80s has died following a crash in County Durham.

The collision took place just before 8.40am on the B6279 Staindrop Road, between Darlington and Summerhouse, on Thursday. Durham police say it involved a Mercedes A class and a BMW 1 series which were travelling in opposite directions.

The passenger of the Mercedes died following the crash. Officers are now urging members of the public to come forward with any information about the collision to help with their inquiries.

A spokesperson from Durham Constabulary said: "Police are appealing for information following a fatal collision in Darlington. The incident happened just before 8.40am on the B6279, Staindrop Road between Darlington and Summerhouse. It involved a Mercedes A class and a BMW 1 series which were travelling in opposite directions.

"Sadly, the passenger of the Mercedes – a woman in her 80s – was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

"The driver of the Mercedes was taken to hospital as a precaution whilst the woman of the BMW was uninjured. The road was closed for several hours as officers launched their investigation.

"It has now reopened but officers are asking for any witnesses, especially those who might have dashcam footage, to come forward. If you have any information, call 101 quoting incident reference number 90 of November 23."

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