Police are hunting a driver after a serious collision on the A21 closed it in both directions - leaving a passenger fighting for their life.

Police and ambulance crews remain at the scene of the incident between the A229 and the A268 near Flimwell, which is close to Tunbridge Wells.

The force explained the incident happened at around 3.15am and the passenger of the vehicle suffered "critical injuries" while the driver made off but is also thought to be injured.

A spokesman said: "The passenger of the vehicle has critical injuries and ambulance are on scene.

"The driver, who could have also suffered injuries, decamped from the vehicle and officers, assisted by the police helicopter, are conducting an area search.

"He is described as of slim build, 5’ 7” and with short blond hair."

"The A21 has been closed in both directions between the junctions with the A268 and the B2099. The road is expected to be closed for a substantial amount of time."

Coast-bounds traffic should exit the A21 at the Flimwell Cross Roads turning left onto the A268, then turn right at Hawkhurst onto the A229

Continue along and re-join the A21 at Cooper's Corner.

London-bound traffic should exit the A21 at Cooper's Corner onto the A229 and head toward Hawkhurst, then turn left at Hawkhurst onto the A268 and re-join the A21 at Flimwell.

Police are appealing for any witnesses who saw the incident to come forward.

Anyone who saw the collision or has information on the driver can be report it online or by calling 101, quoting reference Operation Elston.

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Read more: All the latest news from Tunbridge Wells