Selwyn Clarke: 'One of a kind' father killed in 'hit-and-run'

Killed: Selwyn Clarke with his daughter Joy Green

A father-of-five run down and killed in a suspected hit and run crash was “one of a kind” his grieving family said today.

Selwyn Clarke, 66, was knocked over by a van as he crossed a road near his home in New Addington, south London, at 5.44pm on Friday.

Paramedics administered first aid but the retired British Rail worker was pronounced dead at the scene.

Last night Mr Clarke’s devastated family gathered at his home he shared with his wife Winnie.

His daughter, Joy Green, 42, a beautician, said: “We are devastated. We have lost our dad. He was a friend to everyone. Everybody loved him. We love and miss our dad.

“We are very cold and numb. We will wait for answers and hopefully justice will be done. He had lots of grandchildren and some more on the way.

“We are getting so much love and support. He was brilliant and very loving. He was one of a kind – unique in every way. He was also hilarious.”

Another daughter, Dawn Green, 43, a hairdresser, said: “When I first heard there had been an accident I didn’t believe it. We can’t believe it happened around the corner. We are in shock.”

A family friend added: “He was a good man. He was coming to meet me that night. I want to find out how my friend died. We are all grieving. I can’t believe it.”

Another added: “He was well respected. Everybody loved him, he was a beautiful person.”

The driver left the scene of the crash in King Henry’s Drive but a 34-year-old man later handed himself in to a south London police station, a Met spokesman said.

He is being questioned on suspicion of failing to stop at the scene of an accident and causing death by dangerous driving.

Witnesses are asked to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0208 285 1574, call 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

One of Mr Clarke’s granddaughters has set up an online appeal to raise £5,000 towards his funeral costs. To donate visit: www.gofundme.com/selwyn-clarke

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