An 86-year-old woman has died following a car collision in Carlisle yesterday afternoon.

A 43-year-old man, driving a Mercedes wagon, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and remains in custody this morning.

The incident happened on the A689, at the Irthington junction, near to Carlisle Airport around 3.20pm.

Police confirmed this morning that the 86-year-old woman, from the Carlisle area, was driving a white Fiat Panda and had died.

A police spokesman said her family had been informed and were being "supported by specialist officers."

Police are appealing for any witnesses to come forward, in particular two drivers who were waiting to turn onto the A689 from Irthington at the time of the collision.

Another vehicle, a black Ford Fiesta, was involved in the crash.

The road, which is a major route in and out of the city, was closed for several hours following the incident and drivers were asked to avoid the area if possible.

Anyone with information should call police on 101 and ask for PC 2265.