POLICE are appealing for information after a woman was assaulted before a series of hit and run incidents took place.

Officers from Lancashire Constabulary say the assault on a 32-year-old woman occurred at the Ocean Edge caravan park, Heysham, at around 7pm on Saturday night.

She sustained serious head injuries during the attack.

Then three other people, including a man who is fighting for his life in hospital, were also hurt in a series of road accidents which followed.

The first occurred a short time after the assault, when a 42-year-old man sustained serious head injuries when he was hit at the entrance to the caravan park by a dark-coloured Ford Fusion, being driven from the scene of the assault.

The man is currently in a critical condition at the Royal Preston Hospital Then at about 7.15pm a 53-year-old man, out walking his dog, was struck by what is believed to be the same car at Half Moon Bay.

Fortunately he only suffered minor injuries.

At about 7.30pm a 36-year-old woman driving a Peugeot 207 also suffered minor injuries when her car was involved in a collision with a Ford Fusion, again thought to be the same car involved in the earlier incidents.

Police have launched a major investigation and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to get in touch.

They say a 45-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, dangerous driving, failing to stop after a collision and drink driving. He is currently in custody.

Det Supt Sue Cawley, who is leading the inquiry with Lancashire police, said: "Two people have been left with extremely serious injuries following this incident and others have also been injured, fortunately less seriously.

"I would appeal to anyone who has any information to get in touch with the police."

Anyone with information can contact 101 quoting log number 1321 of September 20th, or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.