POLICE have released a security camera image of a scene just a split second before a young girl was the victim of a serious hit-and-run incident.

Schoolgirl Katie Scales is slowly recovering in hospital from severe facial injuries, while the search for the driver a black Fiat Punto continues.

The 11-year old was hit by the car in Blossom Street, York, at about 4.20pm last Wednesday, when the driver failed to stop at traffic lights, which the image clearly shows were on red.

Katie, from Haxby, near York, is being treated in York District Hospital for an injured jaw and right arm. Her family said that she was left traumatised by the accident and is in a lot of pain.

Police hope that by releasing the image it will help to identify the driver of the vehicle. They are particularly keen to speak to the person at the top of the picture who is posting a letter.

Traffic Constable Richard Gatecliffe said: "We are hoping this picture will jog someone's memory, and they can come forward to help us piece together this very serious incident."

The image has been sent for enhancement at a specialist laboratory and the police are awaiting more details from the experts to help with the investigation. Meanwhile, Katie's school rendition of Bugsy Malone has been put on hold until she is fit enough to take part.

She had been on her way home from All Saints' RC School, York, after rehearsals when the accident happened.

Witnesses to the incident and anyone with further information about the Fiat Punto should call the traffic police on (01904) 631321