A PENSIONER was killed by a hit-and-run driver as he crossed a busy road at the weekend.

Ronald Pearson, 70, died after suffering multiple injuries when a speeding VW Polo struck him near the Billy Mill roundabout, North Shields, at 10.45pm on Sunday.

Police, who are studying closed-circuit television footage from a nearby garage, are hunting for an H or J registration white VW Polo, which had three occupants.

Inspector Paul Gilroy, of Northumbria Police, said: "It appears this car left the roundabout at speed and struck Mr Pearson as he crossed from the central refuge.

"He was taken to North Tyneside General Hospital where he died of multiple injuries.

Police say H or J registration car will have had a shattered windscreen, as well as damage to the front offside, bonnet and front offide wing, and headlamp. headlamp.

Anyone with information has been asked to call police on (01661) 872555, extension 62777