By Martin Walker
A man has been killed in a fatal road traffic accident near Newton Aycliffe today.
The accident happened between junctions 58 and 59 in the South-bound carriageway of the A1 (M), at 3.20am, when a lorry collided with the man, who was walking South on the motorway.
The Volvo FH13 3×3 articulated lorry, owned by a Darlington transport company and driven by a Bishop Auckland man, collided with the pedestrian, who was later pronounced dead at the scene.
The road between Aycliffe and Burtree was closed for five hours, but has since reopened.
Police are asking for any witnesses to contact them on 0191 375 2159.