POLICE are searching for the driver of a dark blue Volvo who fled from a hit-and-run accident.

The crash happened at 8.55pm on Tuesday, at the junction of Middlesbrough's Linthorpe Road and Barnabus Road, and involved a white Ford Orion and the Volvo.

The Orion's passengers were cut free by firefighters. The driver, a 45-year-old man, was taken to Middlesbrough General Hospital along with three passengers.

Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the collision, or who can help to identify the driver of the Volvo, which would have been extensively damaged, to contact PC Michael Wilson, on (01642) 301558