DETECTIVES believe a woman who ran off after a car crash in Accrington might hold vital clues to their investigation.

Police officers were called to Albert Street in the town at about 4am on New Year’s Day after a red Peugeot 106 hit the back of a parked Mazda 6.

The woman, described as white, aged between 20 and 30, 5ft 7in tall, with long dark hair, was seen running from the scene.

Det Sgt Ian Procter, of East Division CID, said: “We are keen to trace this woman as a witness and to ensure her safety and I would appeal for anyone with information to contact us.

“I would also ask the woman herself to get in touch with us if she sees this appeal.”

Nobody was hurt in the crash.

Robert Jeruzalski, 28, of Albert Street, Accrington, was later charged with drink driving, and having no licence or insurance.

He is due to appear at Blackburn Magistrates’ Court on January 19 in connection with the incident.

Two other men who were arrested were released with no further action.

Anyone with information can call police on 101, quoting log number 0577 of January 1.