POLICE are appealing for witnesses after an 11-year-old girl died following a collision with a van.

The girl was struck by a white Ford Escort van in Lower Higham Road, Higham, near Gravesend, shortly before 7pm on Tuesday.

It is believed the girl, known only as Kirsty, was visiting relatives at the time of the tragedy.

The road was closed in both directions for more than six hours. Family members attended the accident scene.

Floral tributes were laid at the spot, just yards from Higham railway station, along with dolls and a teddy bear.

The rain-soaked tributes, barely legible after torrential downpours, laid beside a picture of the youngster.

One of the eulogies read: "Goodbye Kirsty, I will miss you so much, you were the best cousin in the world."

Anyone who saw the incident, the vehicle or the girl in the area at the time, is asked to contact PC Mark Chapelhow on 01622 600970.