THE driver of a white van which hit a puppy fled the scene - and now police are searching for them.

The collision, which happened between 4.30pm and 4.40pm on Saturday in Ampfield Hill, Ampfield, left the young dog with serious injuries.

Police say a white Ford Transit van ran over the puppy before the driver drove off without stopping. The animal received serious injuries, but is in a "stable condition" and "making a good recovery".

Officers say the incident is "not currently believed to have been targeted".

The force is now asking for anyone with CCTV footage, dash-cam videos, or information to call them on 101, quoting reference 44210324063.

The plea added: "We would also be keen to hear from the driver of the van, or anyone who knows who that might be."