THE parents of a man fatally injured in an apparent hit-and-run incident have launched an emotional appeal in a bid to find the driver.

Ronald and Joan Martin paid tribute to their "wonderful and gentle son" as they appealed for witnesses to a collision in Old West Road, Gravesend, that claimed the life of Neil Martin on Thursday, May 31.

Mr Martin, 43, was crossing the road when a silver Ford Escort, which had been parked, reversed back into him.

The driver, described as an Asian man thought to be aged between 20 and 30, struck him and then continued to drag him backwards until a witness banged on his window to tell him to stop.

However, the driver, who is reported to have been on a mobile phone, drove off at speed in the direction of Pelham Road and Perry Street.

Joan Martin said: "There must be someone who knows something about the accident. I’m begging anyone who knows anything to come forward. After all, someone is responsible for our son’s death.

"The last few weeks have been like a nightmare. No arent expects to bury their son. We just want the opportunity to find out what happened."

Mr Martin, from Cecil Road, Gravesend, suffered serious head injuries and was taken to St George’s Hospital, Tooting. He died a week later on Thursday, July 7.

His funeral is due to take place on Wednesday, July 18.

Insp Paul Anderson, from West Kent Police, said: "We are keeping an open mind about this incident. The person who was driving this vehicle may have been genuinely unaware exactly what had happened.

"Alternatively, he may have panicked and driven off without realising how serious Mr Martin’s injuries were.

"Neil’s parents need to get answers to what happened that evening and we are appealing for the driver of the vehicle, or anyone who may know who is, to come forward so we can resolve this case."

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the investigation team at Gravesend police station on 01474 565203. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

A 31-year-old man was arrested by police on June 7 in connection with the tragedy and has been bailed pending further enquiries.