A SCHOOLGIRL was hit by a car and ended up being thrown across the bonnet.

The youngster, thought to be aged 12, managed to escape with just minor injuries after being hit by the car at about 3pm yesterday in Southchurch Avenue, Southend.

Ambulances and police rushed to the scene following the accident involving a Fiat car and the girl, who is thought to be a pupil at Futures Community College.

It is believed the girl was crossing the road near the Old Walnut Tree pub when she was hit.

A passer-by, who did not wish to be named, said: “One of the girls ran across the road and a car knocked her over.

“I heard a big bang and went over to look, but she seemed OK. She went into a shop afterwards, and seemed really shaken up.

“She was hit on her leg and had injuries to her head and side. She bounced on the bonnet and fell into the road.

“She wasn’t badly injured, but very shaken.

“There were police and ambulances everywhere.”

The ambulance service said it was called at 3.17pm.

A spokesman said: “We attended the scene and there was a patient with minor injuries, but she did not require any treatment.”

Essex Police said officers attended the scene following reports of a collision involving a pedestrian.

A spokesman said: “The pedestrian had minor injuries and was taken home.”

The Echo understands no action will be taken against the driver.