Shortly before 8pm last night, a Volkswagen Golf careered off New Hartley Lane, at the junction with Simonside, and travelled 30ft before crashing, seriously injuring three of the male passengers.

Fire crews attended the scene and had to free two of the passengers using cutting equipment, but said the driver was "self rescued" before their arrival.

The three passengers were transferred to North Tyneside Hospital, where a 20-year-old man involved in the crash was later pronounced dead.

The remaining two passengers, aged 21 and 25, have been transferred to Newcastle General Hospital, and this morning are still said to be in a "life threatening" condition.

This morning police confirmed they had arrested the 21-year-old driver on suspicion of causing death by careless driving who has been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Now Insp Gordon Rea, who is leading the police investigation into the collision said: "While we recognise that often after fatal collisions well wishers do feel they want to leave a floral tribute at the scene of the collision to pay their respects.

"Following this incident police are asking people not to leave flowers on this on this stretch of road as we feel it is too dangerous for people to stop at this location and we want to prevent any further injury."

"The place where the car left the road is on a straight piece of road between two bends and any vehicles coming round these bends could be faced with stationary vehicles and pedestrians which could lead to others being injured."

Police are still appealing for witnesses, anyone who has any information about this incident should contact Northumbria Police on 03456 043043 ext 63848 or ring the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Two men remain in hospital their condition is critical.