POLICE have traced the driver of a van that smashed through the front wall of a house in Hampshire, narrowly missing two people.

David Roles and his wife Jane were watching television when the vehicle crashed across their lounge, coming to rest just inches away.

Officers investigating the crash have spoken to the motorist, but no arrests have been made.

A spokesman said: “We are satisfied we have identified the people involved. The matter is still under investigation and inquiries are continuing.”

Mr and Mrs Roles, both 63, live in a semi-detached house opposite a sharp bend at Sovereign Drive in Hedge End.

As reported, the couple cheated death when the van “came through the curtains” and stopped just in front of Mrs Roles, leaving a tyre mark on the carpet.

A chair next to the front window was sent flying and ended up between her and her husband, who was sitting on a nearby sofa.

Their television also shot across the room and came to rest against a fireplace beside the chair occupied by Mrs Roles.

Speaking at the time she said: “We were watching the news when there was an almighty bang. A van came through the curtains and stopped just in front of me.

"My reaction was one of shock and disbelief. My hands were shaking and I couldn’t sleep that night - I kept getting flashbacks.”

The couple have been living in their kitchen and back room.