MOTORISTS are being urged to take care on the roads following a serious crash in West Cumbria.

Two people were airlifted to hospital following a collision at Steel Brow, Frizington, on Tuesday afternoon.

A 20-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy suffered "serious" injuries. A 53-year-old woman was also taken to hospital with limb injuries.

Although the exact circumstances of the crash are yet to be determined, general road safety advice has been issued.

Keith Little, cabinet member for highways and transport at Cumbria County Council, said: "The light nights are getting here. People are getting out in cars and the roads are getting a bit busier. People need to give themselves more time."

Councillor Gwynneth Everett, who represents Frizington on Copeland Council and lives near Steel Brow, said the road was not necessarily dangerous, if people drive carefully.

She said: "You have got to be aware of vehicles coming in the other direction. There are plenty of passing places.

"We get quite a lot of speeding. People have to be aware these are rural roads and they need to take care."

Nick Ford, chairman of Cleator Moor Town Council, said: "The roads are perfectly ok if you drive within the confines of the road conditions. Driving on country lanes is a whole different experience."

Coun Ford believes driving on country roads should make up part of the driving test, especially in rural areas.

"A one test fits all doesn't really work. They need that extra education."

Police are appealing for witnesses to the collision.

The road was closed for most of Tuesday evening while crash scene investigations were carried out.

The two vehicles involved were a red Seat Leon and silver Nissan X-Trail.

The Seat driver, the 20-year-old, was airlifted to the Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle with serious injuries.

His 17-year-old passenger also suffered serious injuries and was flown to Middlesbrough's James Cook Hospital, but has since been discharged.

The 53-year-old woman was driving the Nissan. She was taken to hospital by ambulance.

Anyone who witnessed the collision is urged to call Cumbria Police on 101, quoting log 156 of February 26.