A TEENAGER suffered serious injuries after being mown down by an angry van driver.

The 19-year-old was arguing with his girlfriend on Gatehope Drive, South Ockendon at about 2am this morning.

In a temper, the lad punched a nearby van. The van’s owner soon emerged and confronted the teen.

Police believe the man then got in to his van and ran the 19-year-old boy over, before speeding off.

Ambulance crews arrived and took the teenager, from South Ockendon, to Basildon Hospital where he remains in a serious condition.

It is believed a number of people in the street witnessed the incident.

Police are appealing for information.

Det Sgt Jim Adams of Grays CID said: "Enquiries are continuing to try and locate the vehicle and the driver.

"It is believed to be a white transit type van with a company name written in dark writing on the side.

“It may be parked in the area fairly regularly so we are carrying out extensive house to house enquiries in the local area.

“However, I would urge anyone who may have any information to contact officers as soon as possible.”

Anyone with any information or who may have witnessed the incident is asked to contact detectives at Grays CID on Essex Police 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.