A PENSIONER had to be taken to hospital after a hit-and-run.

The 73-year-old was hit on the verge of the A22 at Hailsham at 4.38 am this morning.

Emergency services including the air ambulance were sent to treat the man, who remains in a critical condition at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton.

It happened north of the Eagles roundabout on the northbound carriageway, which was closed until 2.50pm.

After the incident, police found a white Renault in Hellingly, which is now being tested for forensics, as they believe it was the vehicle involved.

Meanwhile a 28-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman from the village were arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, and failing to stop after a road traffic collision.

Both remain in custody.

Officers are appealing for any witnesses to come forward and report information via the Sussex Police website or by calling 101 and quoting Operation Cache.