POLICE are investigating a major breakthrough in their efforts to trace a hit-and-run driver who sped off after an accident in Fareham.

Yesterday afternoon officers recovered a red car that they believe was involved in the accident that left a 59-year-old Fareham man seriously injured.

They found the car abandoned on Thorni Avenue around half a mile from where the incident happened on Redlands Lane.

The car is now being scoured by a forensics team in the hope of discovering vital clues that will lead to the driver's identity.

Senior investigating officer Cleaven Faulkner said: "It is a very promising step forward at the moment although we have yet to firmly establish if it is the car in question.

"However, from the initial signs it is very similar to the one we have been trying to trace and, according to witnesses, it was dumped just after the accident happened on Guy Fawkes night.

"It is now in the hands of the forensics team."

The pedestrian who was mowed down and then flung into the path of another car, has been making a steady recovery in Queen Alexandra's intensive care unit where police are preparing to interview him after he re-gained consciousness yesterday.

Sgt Faulker said: "We are hopeful that something will come of this discovery so either the driver, or anyone who knows who the driver is, should think seriously about presenting themselves at a police station while they still have the chance."

Police are still appealing for information and witnesses to the accident that happened on Redlands Lane at 6.30pm on Tuesday and can be contacted at Fareham traffic on 0845 045 4545.