TWO teenage foreign language students were left with serious injuries after a hit-and-run in Bournemouth on Sunday evening.

The crash occurred at 7pm on the A347 Wimborne Road at the junction with the B3064 Lansdowne Road at Cemetery Junction.

A silver Vauxhall Astra, being driven toward the Lansdowne Road direction, failed to stop at a red traffic light.

It hit a black BMW 7 Series, which was being driven across the junction from the Richmond Hill direction toward Charminster.

As a result of the collision, the Astra then collided with metal railings, causing serious injuries to two 16-year-old German students, who were on foot.

The Astra driver immediately ran away and has yet to be found.

Both female pedestrians were taken to hospital for treatment. One was taken to Southampton General Hospital for specialist care.

Their families have been contacted.

Principal Dermot Tobin, of Kings Bournemouth language school where the girls were studying, said: “A very serious incident happened involving two of our students.

“We are waiting for the police report but in the meantime we are in touch with the families and relevant agencies. We are keen to protect the privacy of these young students and their families at this stage.

“One of the students is very seriously injured and is in Southampton hospital. A member of our staff is with her at all times.”

The family in the BMW, including two very young children from the Coventry area, did not require hospital treatment.

PC Tim Gooding, of the road traffic unit, said: “I am appealing for any witnesses to the manner of driving of either vehicle, or anyone who knows the identity or whereabouts of the driver of the Astra to contact us.

“Also, I would ask the driver of the Astra to do the right thing and come forward at the earliest opportunity to assist us with our enquiries.”