A MAN is in court this morning accused of causing the deaths of two people by dangerous driving and then fleeing the scene.

Jodan Hunt, 23, of Hobart Quay, Eastbourne, has been charged with two counts of causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop after a road traffic collision.

A 48-year-old woman from Eastbourne, and the passenger, a 46-year-old man from Uckfield, were killed at the scene, police said.

Officers were called to Bolsover Road in Eastbourne at about 9.35pm on Friday following reports a black Seat Leon had collided with a silver Volkswagen Polo.

The Polo then collided into two parked cars – a blue BMW 330d and a grey Audi A3.

Officers searched the area and arrested Hunt in Grand Parade at about 12.05am on Saturday morning.

The two people who died have been named locally in tributes at the scene as Richard Lewis-Clements and Maria Smith. Police said the families of the victims had been informed.

One tribute with flowers read: "Taken so tragically and far too soon. Sleep tight."

Another from Darren to his "best mate" read: "I can't believe you're gone. Rest in peace. Thinking of you always."

Sergeant Dan Pitcher, of the East Sussex Roads Policing Unit, said: “This has been a fast-moving investigation into a tragic hit-and-run collision.

"Trained officers are working with the families of the deceased, offering support and guidance.

“In addition to this, officers have gathered evidence which has resulted in the driver being arrested, interviewed and subsequently charged.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has assisted police with enquiries.

"However, I am still very keen to hear from anyone who may have information concerning the collision, or who saw the Seat Leon prior to the collision.”

Police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the collision to call 101 quoting Operation Harfield.

Do you know the victims? Email news@theargus.co.uk with your tributes.