EMERGENCY services were called to the scene of a crash involving a Volkswagen Polo and Volkswagen Passat outside the snooker club in Birtley, near Chester-le-Street.

Following the crash on Durham Road, just after midnight on Saturday, July 18, the male driver and female passenger from the Passat made off from the scene on foot.

Officers and emergency services were then contacted by concerned witnesses.

The passengers from the Polo were taken to hospital where they received treatment for minor injuries and both vehicles were later recovered.

An investigation has been launched and police are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or who might have seen a silver coloured VW Passat with registration NY05 BGV in the area before the incident.

Constable Pete Milburn from Northumbria Police’s motor patrols department said: “This was a nasty collision which could have resulted in a serious injury. Thankfully those involved are recovering well and escaped with only minor injuries.

“Our investigation is ongoing and we are busy reviewing CCTV footage and speaking to witnesses but we are still keen to hear from anyone who has not yet got in touch who can help us piece together what has happened and trace those involved.

“We are especially interested to hear from anyone with dashcam footage from the area prior to this collision happening or anyone with information about the occupants of the Passat.”

Anyone with any information can email 80@northumbria.pnn.police.uk or use the Tell us Something Page on Northumbria Police's website quoting log 5 18/07/20.