Teenager critical after car hits parked van

A TEENAGER is in a critical condition after he suffered suspected head, neck and spine injuries when the car he was in collided with a parked van just after midnight on Saturday.

Police were called to Ashton Road, Oldham, following reports a car was being driven erratically. Following a short pursuit, a Renault Clio collided with a parked van after negotiating a bend in Ninth Avenue, Limeside.

Fire crews from Oldham and Hollins attended and used cutting gear on the right side of the car and a spinal board to free the male front-seat passenger, who is in his late teens.

He was taken to the Royal Oldham Hospital and later transferred to Hope Hospital in Salford where he remains in a critical but stable condition. The 17 -year-old driver sustained serious injury and was arrested on suspicion of drink driving and other driving offences.

A second male passenger, also in his late teens, escaped with minor injuries. Inquiries are ongoing. Anyone with information should call 0161-856 8473.