POLICE believe a driver could have vital information about a road crash in which a teenager was left seriously ill in hospital.

The accident took place in Success Road, Shiney Row, near Washington, Wearside, at 6pm on Friday, when a Gilera scooter was involved in an accident with a Renault Clio car at the junction with Bradwell Way.

The 17-year-old rider suffered serious injuries and was last night in a critical condition in Newcastle General Hospital. The car driver was uninjured.

Police want to trace the driver of a silver estate car who stopped after the accident, picked up the rider's helmet and brought it back to the scene, but then drove off. Anyone with information is asked to call 0191-454 7555, ext 66391.