Police are appealing for information after two adults and three children were injured in a serious north-east crash.
Officers in Aberdeenshire are asking the public for assistance following a two-vehicle collision on the A92 Montrose to Stonehaven road on Tuesday.
The crash, involving a black Honda Accord and a white Honda CR-V, happened roughly four miles south of Stonehaven at about 12.45pm.
A 34-year-old woman and two children, aged four and six, were seriously injured and are being treated at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary.
A 30-year-old man and a seven-year-old girl were taken to hospital with minor injuries and have since been discharged.
PC Matthew Lawson said: “I would urge anyone who saw either vehicle prior to the collision, or who witnessed the collision and has not already spoken to police, to contact us.”
West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine MP Andrew Bowie last night said: “My thoughts and prayers go to everyone affected by this accident.
“It’s saddening to hear of any collision on our roads, even more so when young children are involved.”
An air ambulance was dispatched to the scene, with the team joined by doctors and ambulance crews.
The road remained closed in both directions between Dunnottar Castle and the Arbuthnott junction for most of the day as investigations were carried out.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting incident 1559 of October 15.