A MAN was left with serious injuries after being hit by a car during a dispute with the driver.

Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward after the crash, which took place in Chestnut Grove, Benfleet, on Sunday afternoon.

It is unknown why the argument started but police reported that pedestrian was hit by the Skoda, which was being driven by a 64-year-old man from Canvey.

The pedestrian then fled the scene and the police helicopter was launched to help officers track him down.

He was later found and arrested for other offences before being taken to hospital due to suffering neck and back injuries.

One witness, whose parents live in the street, said it was pandemonium after the incident took place.

She said: “Police were flying up and down High Road and up and down Chestnut Grove as well.

“Then the police helicopter was up hovering above Benfleet and they had dog units on the street so it was clear they were looking for someone.

“The police presence and sirens was still in the area up until about 7pm so it seems to have been quite a big incident so I was really concerned for my parents and hoped it was nothing too serious that they would have to be worried about.”

The driver of the car was released under investigation and the pedestrian was still in police custody at the time the Echo went to print.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Two men were arrested following an incident in Chestnut Grove, Benfleet, which was reported to police shortly before 1.40pm on Sunday, March 11.

“There were reports a Skoda was in collision with a man, following an altercation between the driver and the pedestrian.

“The driver, a 64-year-old man from Canvey, was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm.

“He was later released under police investigation while enquiries continue.

“The pedestrian, a 42-year-old man from Benfleet, left the scene before police arrived.

“He was found nearby and arrested on suspicion of robbery and shoplifting.

“He was taken to hospital with serious injuries to his neck and chest.

“Enquiries are ongoing and witnesses are asked to contact Southend CID on 101.”

Alternatively, you can contact independent crimefighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. You can also share information with Crimestoppers anonymously online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org