A CRADLEY Heath pensioner has died after being involved in a hit and run accident three weeks ago.

Police believe Bernard Betts, aged 85, was hit by a car which failed to stop at around 6.20pm in Barrs Road on Wednesday 16 January.

Mr Betts was taken to Russells Hall Hospital with injuries consistent with being involved in a traffic collision.

After fighting for his life for 18 days he died on Sunday, February 3.

Sergeant Gavin Green, from the regional collision investigation unit, said: "We are appealing to anyone who has information about what happened to come forward and contact us.

"Someone must know what happened to Mr Betts and can help us with this investigation. In particular if you have seen a vehicle abandoned with damage, please get in touch.

"We would also appeal to the driver to contact us, they may not have been aware of how serious the collision was at the time and we would urge them to call us immediately."

Police are keeping an open mind as to the type of vehicle involved but are keen to trace the driver of a red Citroen that may have been in the area at the time.

Anyone with information should call the Regional Collision Investigation Unit on 101, or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.