A jogger from Braintree could be left paralysed after he was involved in a hit and run accident.

The 28-year-old man, of Churchill Road, Bocking End, suffered serious spinal injuries after he was hit by what is believed to be a silver-coloured Mercedes car.

The man had been running along Bovingdon Road, Braintree, at around 11am on Wednesday when the accident happened.

The Mercedes did not stop and the victim, who has not been named, was left in agony on the roadside before a passing motorist stopped to help him.

He was airlifted to Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, where his condition was yesterday (Thursday) said to be stable.

Police have launched an appeal for information about the driver of a silver Mercedes, who drove off in the direction of Beazley End.

Insp Steve Brewer, of Bocking traffic police, said they were treating the incident very seriously.

He said: "The injuries to the victim are not life-threatening but in the worst case scenario he could be paralysed. He may never walk again. We do not yet know the extent of the damage and are waiting for X-ray results."

Insp Brewer said: "There is no pavement along that stretch of road. The jogger saw the vehicle travelling towards him and was alarmed enough to try and get up on a grass verge.

"He received a glancing blow from the vehicle which left him collapsed on the verge."

The victim managed to alert a passing motorist minutes after the accident. Insp Brewer said there was no description of the driver and it is not known whether they were male or female.

He said: "We are keen to hear from anyone that may have seen the accident or know someone with a car fitting the description.

"Any damage will be to the near side of the vehicle although it is possible there is no damage at all."

Anyone with any information should ring 01376 551312

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