A PENSIONER was killed in a hit-and-run as she enjoyed a holiday with her family in Malta.

Elizabeth Whilems, 77, of Sunderland, was with her husband and daughter on the island when she was struck and killed on Sunday night.

The pensioner had gone for a walk with her husband and were returning to their hotel in the Qawra resort when the accident happened.

As they were crossing the busy main road just in front of their hotel, in the north east of the island, a Mitsubishi FTO hit her at about 11.35pm.

It is understood the pensioner was killed instantly by the impact of the car.

The vehicle then fled the accident scene without stopping.

District police and CID in Malta launched an investigation and CCTV has been taken from homes, hotels and other businesses on the stretch of road and is currently being analysed by forensic experts.

Magistrate Giovanni Grixti has launched an inquiry into the death.

The incident has shocked residents living in the town, who said the busy road has been an accident waiting to happen for years.

Franco Frenech watched Sunday night's horror unravel.

He said: "The crash happened at about 11.30pm and there were police and other services there until about 2am investigating the scene and moving the body.

"It's a very busy bit of road here and there is very bad lighting. The authorities have been warned many times it's a dangerous road and here is the proof."

Graham Holme said: "After seeing some of these space cadets drive in built up areas, it's a wonder incidents like this are not more frequent.

"Condolences to family and friends of the deceased. I hope this maniac is caught soon and the punishment fits the crime."

Monica Muscat added: "Sad indeed to go for a holiday to a country known for the kindness and friendliness of the people and to lose your life at the hands of a hit-and-run driver."

Police found the abandoned car near the village of Lia, 12km away from the accident, yesterday morning.

A spokesman for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office said: "We can confirm the death of a 77-year-old British national , Elizabeth Whilems, in a hit and run incident in Malta on June 26. Next of kin are aware and we are offering consular assistance."

An 18-year-old from Birkirkara was later arrested in connection to the incident. He was due to appear in court today.