Two people have been hospitalised with serious injuries following a two-car crash involving a police car.

Cumbria Police responded to reports of a crash involving Cleator Moor Road, in Whitehaven, on Sunday, January 19, at 7:50am.

The crash, which took place near the Whitehaven swimming pool, involved a police car and a white Suzuki Celerio.

The police vehicle involved was responding to a separate emergency incident at the time of the crash

The driver of the police car was a male officer, in his 20s.

The driver of the Suzuki was a woman, in her 60s.

Her condition has been described as critical.

Cleator Moor Road remains closed while police investigative enquiries are conducted.

The road is also staying closed for some time and motorists have been advised to avoid the area.

The circumstances of the crash are being fully investigated, Cumbria Police has confirmed.

The incident was immediately referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which is normal practice.

Specialist officers are supporting the family of the driver of the Suzuki.

Cumbria Police is appealing for witnesses to come forward.

In a statement they said: “Anyone who witnessed the collision or may have relevant dashcam or doorbell camera footage is asked to get in touch.

“You can report this information online by visiting https://orlo.uk/t3Z6A, referencing incident number 54 of 19 January.

“Alternatively, you can call 101 referencing the same incident number.”