TWO Newport youths were handed in to the police by their own parents after the car they were travelling in crashed into a lampost, police say.

The incident happened on Gainsborough Drive, St Julian's, where it joins Beaufort Road, on Sunday afternoon.

Residents had reported to police that the car, a blue Ford Escort, was travelling at speed - some claiming it was around 70mph.

Local resident Paul Hornsby, who caught the incident on camera, said: "It happened at about 3pm or 4pm and the car was travelling about 70mph.

"It hit the lamppost and took it right out of the ground. It hit the kerb and turned right over on its roof, landing on its side."

Sgt Chris Garrett, of Maindee police, said: "Witnesses say they were travelling down the road at speed and that the driver lost control and crashed into the lamppost.

"Two 17-year-old youths made off from the area and were identified by their actions. People saw them run off, and both sets of parents brought them back.

"There were no injuries, but the youths were advised to go to the Royal Gwent Hospital. "We asked the local authority to see to the lampost to which there was substantial damage and it was an imminent danger because it had live wires hanging from it.

"The car was not stolen, but the traffic officers who dealt with it are checking to see whether the driver had the proper documentation."

Former magistrate and Newport councillor William Graham praised the actions of the youths' parents.

Councillor Graham said: "I commend the public spirited action by the parents and hopefully the youths will realise that everybody can make a mistake and learn from their actions.

"That takes courage and understanding."