POLICE are trying to trace a motorist who drove from the scene of an accident after smashing into a newly put up fence.

The homeowner in Richmond Avenue, Benfleet, was left reeling after a concrete post was snapped in half and three panels damaged on the fence put up just a day earlier.

The smash happened just before 1.30pm on Sunday, April 12, when a blue Ford Fiesta hit the fence then failed to stop.

Investigating officer Rob Bray said: "A witness has reported hearing a loud bang and has then seen a blue, older style, Ford Fiesta driving off through the Womens’ Royal Voluntary Service car park after hitting the fence.

"Three panels were damaged and the force of the impact was enough to snap one of the concrete posts in half. The fence had only just been put up the day before so this has been particularly unfortunate for the householder.”

Anyone with information about the incident can call PC Bray at Laindon Police Station on 101 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.555 111.