A DRIVER crashed into railings outside Orsett Primary School before fleeing the scene on foot.

Police were called to the crash at around 2.20am on Sunday, December 1 but found the smashed up vehicle abandoned.

The driver had hit a wall outside Orsett hospital on School Lane, before careering in to railings opposite the school.

The police helicopter was sent up to scour the area and assist officers on the ground but no one was found.

Police confirmed that a man contacted police about the incident later on Sunday morning.

A spokesperson said enquiries are continuing.

The school said no damage had been caused to the premises and that there had been no disruption to lessons.

Mangled railings outside the school will need replacing, however.