Horror as seven-year-old boy is killed in hit-and-run - as police hunt driver

Police have launched a manhunt for a suspected hit-and-run driver after a seven-year-old boy was struck down and left 'dying in the middle of the road'.

The youngster was killed in Folkestone, Kent around 5.35pm yesterday after being knocked down on Sandgate Esplanade near the junction with Prospect Road.

Police and ambulance crews rushed to the town centre, but despite efforts to save his life, the boy died at the scene. His family have been notified.

Two vehicles - an unidentified car or van and a red Citroen car - were involved in the crash. Kent Police said the unidentified vehicle fled the scene before crews arrived. 

The force has now launched an appeal to identify the driver and have encouraged witnesses or anyone with video of the incident to come forward.

The boy was killed in a collision near that town centre that involved an unidentified car or van and a red Citroen car.

Police say the driver of the unidentified vehicle fled in the direction of Hythe before first responders arrived on scene.

Anyone who witnessed the collision - or saw either the victim or vehicles involved in moments leading up to it - is urged to contact police.

Information can be reported to the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01622 798538 quoting reference MM/DGC/130/23 or via email at sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk.

The force has also asked drivers and local residents to check their dashcams or CCTV for any footage that may aid in the investigation.