The family of a man who was killed in a hit and run say they are devastated by his death and called him a “true gent”.

Andy Forrest, 75, died after being struck on a zebra crossing in Upperton Road, Eastbourne, by a car which then drove away.

Now Andy’s family have paid tribute to the artist, musician and author describing him as “always kind, always smiling and always grateful”.

In a statement released through Sussex Police, the family said: “We are truly devastated by Andy’s sudden death in such terrible and dramatic circumstances.

“He was an accomplished artist, musician and published author with a wide circle of friends in the Eastbourne community.

“He was much loved by all his family and friends. Always kind, always smiling and always grateful - he was a true gent. He will be greatly missed by us all.”

Six men were arrested following the hit and run which happened at around 7.50pm on July 26.

They were held on suspicion of offences including causing death by dangerous driving, assisting an offender and conspiring to pervert the course of justice.

The men, aged between 24 and 27, have all been bailed pending further enquiries.

Sussex Police Detective Inspector Kani Barawi said: “I would like to express my sincere condolences to Andy’s family as they come to terms with this tragedy.

“Our investigation is ongoing as we seek to establish exactly what happened that evening.

“We are appealing for anyone who witnessed the collision or captured any relevant CCTV or dashcam footage to contact collision.appeal@sussex.police.uk, quoting Operation Broomfield.”

https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/23717289.eastbourne-family-mourn-death-upperton-road-hit-run-victim/

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