DETECTIVES have quizzed a teenage girl on suspicion of attempted murder after a young woman was mown down by a car and left for dead.

The 18-year-old was interview in police custody over the hit and run which happened in broad daylight on a quiet country road.

CID officers believe the victim, a 23-year-old woman, who was named locally as Faye Townsend, was deliberately driven at by someone who is understood to have been known to her.

The Daily Echo understands that the incident, which happened shortly before 1.45pm on Tuesday in West Wellow, was a targeted attack.

Police would not confirm if there had previously been issues between the pair.

The 18-year-old suspect was understood to be driving the white Nissan Micra involved in the crash which was later found by police in Calmore.

She has since been bailed by police.

The vehicle has since been seized by detectives and is subject to extensive forensic examination.

The hit and run happened as Miss Townsend was walking along Tutts Lane towards Groves Down in West Wellow near Romsey.  The driver of the car failed to stop at the scene, where the 23-year-old was left lying critically injured on the ground.

A member of the public had raised the alarm and called 999. It is not clear if they witnessed the incident or if they found the woman shortly after.

As reported, Miss Townsend was taken to Southampton General Hospital with life threatening injuries after police and paramedics were called to the scene.

She remains in a critical but stable condition It is thought police are checking CCTV cameras in and around the area and along the route back to the Calmore area in their search for evidence.

The hit and run is now being investigated by detectives in Southampton who are urging anyone with information to contact Detective Sergeant Janine Bradley on 101. or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.