A YORK teenager has spoken of his lucky escape after being involved in a road accident.

Matthew Gallagher, 14, of Somerset Road, York, was left unconscious and had a huge lump on the back of his head after being in collision with a car at the junction of Haley's Terrace with Huntington Road.

But miraculously the Joseph Rowntree School pupil escaped with just scratches, and was released from hospital less than 24 hours after the collision, which happened at around 5.30pm on Friday.

Matthew was taken to York District Hospital, accompanied by his mother Mary and father Harry, while neighbours looked after his sisters Emma, eight and Clare, 11.

After undergoing tests and x-rays the teenager was discharged on Saturday morning.

Matthew said he was feeling fine and was preparing to go back to school today.

He said: "I feel lucky, I haven't broken a bone or anything."

Mr Gallagher said: "I'm counting my blessings, I'm just amazed.

York police are seeking witnesses to the accident. Anyone with any information should contact PC Andrew Haigh on 01904 631321.

A 37-year-old York man was arrested on suspicion of driving a vehicle while over the legal alcohol limit and for a public order offence. He has been bailed pending further inquiries.

A 41-year-old woman from York was arrested for obstructing police and has also been bailed.

A 46-year-old York man was charged with a public order offence in connection with the incident and is due to appear at York Magistrates' Court on Wednesday.

Updated: 10:23 Monday, January 21, 2002