A pedestrian was left needing hospital treatment following a hit-and-run accident last night.

The man was hit by a vehicle in Tattlebury Lane, Headcorn , at around 10pm and was discovered lying in the dark by two friends returning home from playing football.

Pals Steve Irvine and Dave Jones were turning into the road when they saw the victim on the floor.

After putting him into the recovery position the pair called 999 and police and ambulance crews arrived at the scene shortly after.

The man had sustained injuries to his legs and, although the air ambulance was called, he was taken to hospital in Ashford by road.

Mr Irvine, who lives in Tattlebury Road, spoke of his shock at coming across the injured walker - who he estimated was aged around 40 - as he came home from playing football earlier in the evening.

The 27-year-old recruitment consultant, who had previously trained for the Royal Marines, said: "When we arrived on the scene he was lying on the floor.

"As soon as we saw that we stopped, put him in the recovery position, and then phoned 999.

"I have never experienced anything like that before, it was not a nice feeling."

Mr Irvine believes the assistance that he and Mr Jones, a 31-year-old former Royal Marine, were able to provide together after finding the man could have helped save his life.

He said: "I think it's lucky that we found him, because it was on the corner and it was dark there.

"I'm not sure, but if he had been left his condition could have been worse."

A police spokesman confirmed the collision had involved a pedestrian and a vehicle, which had left prior to the arrival of officer.

"South East Coast Ambulance also attended and the pedestrian was conveyed to a local hospital where he was treated for injuries," they said.

"Officers are conducting enquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident and are appealing for witnesses."

An ambulance service spokesman said: "We attended reports a man had been hit by a vehicle following a call at approximately 10.10pm.

"We were joined at the scene by the air ambulance service. The man was assessed and treated at the scene before being taken to William Harvey Hospital."

Anyone with information about the incident should call 01622 604100 quoting reference 15-1475

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