Police have urged anyone who may have repaired a car suspected of being involved in a hit-and-run to come forward.

The appeal comes five weeks after grandfather Thomas Davis was seriously hurt as he crossed a road in Rainham.

The 85-year-old suffered nine broken ribs, fractured vertebrae, bleeds on his brain and severe bruising. It happened outside the Premier Inn, London Road, at about 11.20pm on Friday, April 11.

Officers are still trying to trace the driver of a small silver hatchback car which is thought to have been involved.

DS Scott Lynch, of the serious collision investigation unit, said: “‘It is possible the driver did not know that the car, which might have suffered damage, had been in collision with the pedestrian so I would urge him or her to contact police as soon as possible as they may be able to assist with our inquiries.

“I would also encourage anyone who has made repairs to a small silver hatchback with damage consistent to this type of incident to come forward.”

He added: “The A2 in Rainham is a popular route and it is likely that there were other motorists and pedestrians in the area at the time of the incident.

“I would urge anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to contact police.”

On the night he was knocked down, Mr Davies was making his way to the Premier Inn after being dropped off following the annual dinner of the Polhill Cycling Club in Upchurch, which he founded.

Last week he had to undergo major surgery to relieve pressure on his brain and he is suffering from pneumonia but granddaughter Nicole Sawhney said he is slowly getting better.

She added: “Grandad has been through five weeks of hell and so has my whole family.”

• Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01622 798538. Alternatively, please contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.