WITNESSES are being urged to come forward after two women from Ringwood were injured in a hit and run on the A31 near Ferndown (yesterday). 

The front seat passenger of a Renault Clio, a 21-year-old woman, was taken to Poole Hospital with a serious hand injury and the 17-year-old driver sustained minor injuries.

The incident happened at around 1.15pm and involved a black Renault Clio heading westbound on the A31 near to the Ashley Heath roundabout.

It was reported 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 woman – to take evasive action.

The Clio left the road and ended up on its side on the outside lane. And police say the driver of the estate failed to stop.

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.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101, quoting incident number 26:183. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.