An elderly woman is fighting for her life in hospital after a suspected hit and run near a popular coastal pub.

The 78-year-old was reportedly crossing the road outside the Astley Arms pub in Seaton Sluice, Northumberland when she was hit by a dark-coloured vehicle – believed to be a Mercedes – travelling south.

When cops and paramedics arrived the vehicle had left the area.

The woman was taken to hospital where she remains in a critical condition with serious injuries.

The incident happened at about 4.50pm on Friday (December 8) afternoon.

Northumbria Police have launched an investigation into what officers are calling a “serious incident” and are trying to trace the driver.

Sergeant Craig Bartle said: “This is a serious incident which has hospitalised an elderly woman, and we wish her a full recovery.

“It is now our job to establish exactly what has happened which is why it’s important we speak to the driver involved, and anyone else who was in the area at the time.

“We believe the vehicle involved is dark in colour, and the make is possibly a Mercedes.

“We know the area was very busy around the time of the collision – with rush hour traffic and a number of passing motorists and pedestrians in the vicinity.

“I would urge any further witnesses who have not yet spoken to officers to contact us as soon as possible. Your information – no matter how small it may seem – could prove vital to our investigation.

 “We are especially keen to hear from any motorists with dashcam footage, or residents and premises with CCTV footage, as this could really help us build up a clear picture of the moments before and after the collision.”

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Anyone with information is urged to contact police.

A force spokesperson added: “Anyone with information is asked to report to police using the ‘Report’ page on the Northumbria Police website or call 101 quoting reference number: NP-20231208-0785.

“Members of the public can also share information anonymously by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visiting their website.”