A PENSIONER died after a three-car smash in West Oxfordshire, which also left a woman fighting for her life in hospital.

Thames Valley Police has today released an appeal for witnesses after the fatal crash on the A415 in Ducklington.

It happened yesterday at about 10.20am, involving a white Ford Transit van, Red Peugeot 107 and Silver Mercedes Vito.

The van was travelling north when it veered onto the other side of the road and crashed with the southbound Peugot. 

The driver of the car, who was in his 70s, died at the scene and a female passenger in her 60s was seriously injured.

Police said the woman was taken to the John Radcliffe Hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The Mercedes, which had been behind the van, was also caught up in the crash. 

A 37-year-old man from Oxford has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and causing death by careless driving whilst over the prescribed limit.

He has been released under investigation.

Investigating officer Sgt Beth Walton, from the force's serious collision investigation unit based in Bicester, said: "I would like to speak to anyone who witnessed the collision or who may have seen any of the vehicles travelling on the A415 before the collision.

"If you have any information which could assist the investigation please contact police as soon as possible."

Anyone with any information can call 101 quoting URN 380 (7/9). 

The man's next of kin has been informed but has not yet been named.

To pay a tribute click here.