REVELLERS could hold the key to police investigations into a hit and run incident in Holywell Hill on Friday night, writes Stuart Hutchison.

Colin England, 31, of How Wood, Park Street, was hit by a car as he crossed the road near the Jet petrol station at 11.35pm. The driver then steered around Mr England as he lay in the road, mounting the pavement before heading up St Stephen's Hill.

Mr England was rushed to Hemel Hempstead Hospital with serious head injuries.

He has since been allowed home but will have to return to hospital for further treatment.

A spokesman for St Albans police said: "This driver needs catching. It could have been your relative who was left for dead in the road."

On Friday evenings, Holywell Hill is busy with people returning home after leaving the city's pubs and police hope a number of people will come forward with information.

Witnesses at the scene told officers two cars were seen travelling towards Mr England as he crossed the road.

A Hertfordshire Constabulary spokesman said: "Two vehicles, travelling down Holywell Hill, were involved in the accident; a purple Peugeot car and a Leyland car.

"Debris recovered at the scene, a piece of bumper and a wing mirror, suggests it was the Leyland car which was in collision with Mr England.

"Witnesses saw at least one of the cars mount the pavement in an attempt to avoid him as he lay in the road, and the two cars were seen driving off at speed in the direction of St Stephen's Hill.

"We ask anyone whose friend, neighbour or relative came home on Friday night in a damaged car which fits these descriptions, to contact us.

"We would also like to hear from any car-part dealers or scrap metal merchants who have had enquiries since Friday from people seeking spare parts for a Leyland car - this would not be a common request."

Witnesses should call PC Mark Caldicott of St Albans traffic unit on 01727 696213.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.