POLICE are hunting a hit-and-run driver after a crash that left a young Hampshire woman in hospital.

Officers are appealing for witnesses following the hit-and-run which happened on the A31 near Ferndown yesterday afternoon.

The crash involved a black Renault Clio heading westbound, close to the Ashley Heath roundabout, at around 1.15pm.

It has been reported that a dark coloured estate car crossed over the chevrons, just prior to the interchange, causing the driver of the Clio – a 17-year-old Ringwood girl – to take evasive action.

As reported by the Daily Echo, the Clio left the road and ended up on its side on the outside lane. The driver of the estate failed to stop.

The front seat passenger of the Clio, a 21-year-old Ringwood woman, was taken to Poole Hospital with a serious hand injury and the driver sustained minor injuries.

Police Constable Mark Palmer, of Dorset Police’s Traffic Unit, said: “This collision could have been a lot more serious and it’s remarkable that the victims didn’t sustain more injuries.

“I am appealing to any witnesses of the collision, who we haven’t already spoken to, to please call me on 101.

“I would also urge the driver of the dark coloured estate, who was present at the time of the incident, to contact me urgently.

“All calls will be treated in strict confidence.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Motorists reported being stuck in traffic for three miles due to the crash.