Father of Sabah and Rayhan Saleem hails 'miracle' as they recover from hit-and-run accident

The father of two young children who were mowed down by a hit-and-run driver has said it is “a miracle” that his son has been discharged from hospital.

Sabah Saleem, 10, and her two-year-old brother Rayhan, were struck earlier this month as they went to a local shop in Hyde Park, Leeds.

Sabah, who is thought to have stepped in front of the car to save her brother, remains in hospital in Leeds but is no longer in intensive care and is expected to make a full recovery.

Speaking from the family home, father Mohammed Saleem Rafique said he was overjoyed to have his son home.

"It's been brilliant to have Rayhan back considering the injuries he sustained. It's been a miracle," he told ITV's Daybreak.

He said Rayhan, who thinks he fell while playing on a swing, has no memory of the incident in Brudenell Street.

"He has no recollection of what happened. I think that's a good thing as it would have led to him being traumatised and having nightmares.

"I can't thank the public enough. Everybody's been praying for them."

He said Sabah was also recovering well, although it was not possible to say when she will be released from hospital.

"It's really heartwarming to hear her speak a few words," he added.

West Yorkshire Police said they have arrested a 36-year-old man on suspicion of dangerous driving, failing to stop at the scene of an accident and failing to report an accident; a 39-year-old man on suspicion of dangerous driving; and a 26-year-old man on suspicion of assisting an offender.

All three, from Leeds, are currently on bail and have not been charged, a police spokesman said.

PA