A man is in hospital after a collision between two cars in Co. Clare last night.

Gardaí say the accident involving two cars and a pedestrian happened at around 10pm on Gort Road at Sheils roundabout in Ennis.

A male pedestrian in his 40s was seriously injured, and was taken by ambulance to University Hospital Limerick where his injuries are understood to be life threatening.

Two men in one of the cars, aged 25 and 19, tried to escape on foot, but were followed and caught by an off-duty Garda who arrested them not far from the scene of the accident.

They were treated for minor injuries and are currently being held under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 at Ennis Garda Station, by investigating Gardaí.

Two women in their 60s, who were in the other car, were also taken to University Hospital Limerick, but their injuries are not thought to be life threatening.

Gardaí carried out a forensic examination of the scene and the road has since reopened to traffic.

They are appealing for witnesses, and are in particular appealing to anyone who was in a nearby filling station and shopping centre to contact them.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Ennis Garda Station 065-6848100 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111.