Two youths from Thurrock were today fighting for their lives as their pal is held in custody charged with motoring offences.

The 16-year-olds' conditions are described as critical as they lay in Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge and the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow.

A third passenger, aged 16, is stable in Romford's Oldchurch Hospital.

Driver Darren Reeves, 18, of Tilbury, has appeared at Basildon Magistrates Court charged with a number of driving offences and robbery.

He has been remanded in custody until his next appearance on Friday, July 16.

The accident happened on Thursday on the A414 in Harlow between the M11 junction seven and Harlow Moat House hotel.

At around 12.20am, the white Ford Sierra the boys were travelling in left the Shell garage going towards Harlow and collided with a Volvo Saloon going the other way.

The Volvo driver was unhurt.

A 33-year-old woman was arrested near the scene on suspicion of robbery but was released on police bail pending further investigation.

Harlow traffic police are now appealing for witnesses to the accident to contact them on 01279 641221.

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