A motorist who suffered multiple injuries in a road crash four years ago has won £490,000 in damages at London's High Court.

Kenneth Newton, from Worthing, broke both legs and suffered severe head and face injuries when his van was struck by an oncoming car near Southwater in April, 1997.

Mr Newton was in intensive care for 11 days after the accident, remaining in hospital for a total of two months. He also suffered internal chest and abdomen injuries.

He sued the other driver involved in the accident and the owners of the car she was driving.

After last minute negotiations before what had been expected to be a contested trial, Mr Newton's counsel, Jonathan Watt-Pringle, told Judge Brunning a settlement had been reached.

His client received £490,000 damages plus his legal costs.

The judge said: "I'm sure this is a wise settlement in all the circumstances of the case."

After the hearing the former plant operator said he now wished to "get on with his life" and carry on as normally as possible.