Police are appealing for witnesses after eight people were left in hospital following a high-speed chase last night.

At 11.15pm a silver Mercedes E280 failed to stop for police on the A28 Canterbury Road, Westgate.

After a short pursuit the Mercedes collided with a grey Citroen Cactus before leaving the carriageway and crashing into two street lamps.

The five occupants of the Mercedes left the scene but were all later found by police.

All five were arrested on suspicion of being carried in a stolen vehicle, and were taken for medical treatment.

The three occupants of the Citroen sustained minor injuries and were also taken to hospital.

The road remained closed last night while officers investigated the scene but has since reopened.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the witness appeal line on 01622 798538 quoting MC/DH/101/16.