A WOMAN has been taken to hospital after being hit by a van in Halesowen - with the driver running off.

Police are investigating after the elderly female pedestrian was hit by the van on Spies Lane just before 11.45am today (Tuesday January 11).

The van driver ran off from the scene with police now trying to trace them.

The woman has been taken to the QE hospital with "potentially serious injuries" and the road is currently closed (as of 3pm) near the junction of Shenstone Valley Road.

A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "We've launched an investigation after a pedestrian was injured during a hit-and-run collision in Halesowen today.

"We were called after a woman was struck by a van on Spies Lane just before 11.45am.

"She has been taken to hospital for her injuries to be assessed.

"The driver abandoned the vehicle and fled the area. We're now carrying out enquiries to identify and trace them.

"The road is currently closed near the junction of Shenstone Valley Road and we appreciate everyone’s patience.

"Anybody with information is asked to contact us via Live Chat on our website or by calling 101. Quote 1536 of 11/01/22."

A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service said: "One ambulance, a paramedic officer and a Critical Care Car from Midlands Air Ambulance attended the scene.

"On arrival, we found an elderly female who was the pedestrian, she was assessed and had sustained potentially serious injuries.

"She received treatment on scene and was conveyed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment.”