Fire crews and police raced to a car which hit a tree and burst into flames last night (Wednesday).

They were told petrol had spilled from the vehicle after the crash and caught light and people were possibly trapped inside.

But when they got to the scene in Hay Lane, Fingringhoe, just after 10.30pm, they found the car was empty.

The car had been involved in an earlier accident at the junction of Queen Elizabeth Way and Monkwick Avenue, Colchester, according to police.

PC Tom Tompkins, of Stanway traffic unit, said: "It demolished the wall of a house and was driven off before it had the accident in Hay Lane where it struck a tree.

"The driver decamped and it burst into flames. There were no injuries."

He added: "Anyone with any information should contact either myself of PC Darrin Lee on 01206 762512."

A youth has been arrested in connection with the incident and charged with motoring offences including aggravated vehicle taking, drink-driving and driving while disqualified.

He was due to appear before Colchester magistrates today.

By Stephen Rawlins

Reporter's e-mail: stephen_rawlins@thisisessex.co.uk

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