Appeal for witnesses as runner fights for his life

Police are appealing for witnesses to a collision which left an Ashford jogger in a critical condition.

The 45-year-old Ashford man was struck by a Ford Kuga at the traffic lights in Simone Weil Avenue at about 1.45pm on Saturday, January 4.

The man suffered life-threatening head, neck, chest and abdominal injuries and was flown by air ambulance to Tunbridge Wells Hospital.

He was later transferred to King’s College Hospital, London.

The car driver, a woman, was arrested and bailed until Monday, March 24, pending further inquiries.

Now, Kent Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit is appealing for witnesses to the incident to get in touch.

PC David Jeeves said: “We would particularly like to speak to the driver of a light van who went through the traffic lights prior to the collision.

“It came from the roundabout heading in the direction of Kennington.

“Several witnesses have already mentioned this van and the driver may be able to provide us with some valuable information.”

Trapped

Following the smash, Simone Weil Avenue was closed in both directions for four hours while officers gathered evidence, meaning that hundreds of motorists found themselves trapped on the Warren Retail Park.

A police spokesman said: “During the road closure, hundreds of vehicles were trapped in a nearby car park.

“We would like to thank them for their patience and apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact the dedicated SCIU witness appeal line on 01622 798538, quoting 04-690.

Picture: Andy Clark A man is still in a critical condition after he was hit by a car in Simone Weil Avenue, Ashford