POLICE called to an accident discovered the driver had fled the scene and the four passengers were drunk.

All four were taken to hospital following the incident, which occurred at Knellers Lane, Totton, near its junction with the A326, late last night.

Three ambulances and two fire crews were sent to the scene.

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) said two people in the vehicle were helped to safety by firefighters from Redbridge and Totton.

A police spokesperson added: "We were called at 10.43pm to reports of a single-vehicle collision.

"A black BMW 118D had left the carriageway and driven into a ditch.

"Four people were in the vehicle on police arrival, believed to be intoxicated. The driver had made off from the scene.

"The four in the vehicle received injuries and were taken to Southampton General Hospital. Their injuries are not life-threatening."

South Central Ambulance Service added: "We received a 999 call with the caller reporting a car had come off the A326 at Totton and ended up in a ditch, reportedly trapping some of the occupants.

"Fortunately it appeared that none of the occupants had sustained serious injuries but all four were taken to hospital for further treatment and assessment."

HFRS tweeted: "Car in a ditch off the A326 near Foxhills, Totton. Two persons assisted from vehicle and handed to South Central Ambulance. Scene left safe."