THE driver of a stolen car that smashed into a telegraph pole causing severe structural damage is being sought by police.

Emergency crews were called to Lucks Hill, West Malling, following reports that a car had crashed near the entrance to More Park Primary School. The Ford Mondeo had been stolen only a short time earlier.

Police cordoned off a section of the road and diverted traffic while the vehicle was recovered. Police said it appeared that the driver, who made off after the crash, had lost control on the bend, before colliding with the telegraph pole.

BT engineers were deployed to cut down and replace the pole, fearing the damage caused could make the structure hazardous and affect the telephone service in the surrounding area.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact West Kent Police on 01622 604181.