Christopher Colegate's family appeal to hit-and-run driver

Christopher Colegate's family said the 69-year-old enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren

The family of a "frail" grandfather who died after a hit-and-run have appealed for the driver to come forward.

Christopher Colegate, 69, who used two walking sticks, was found seriously injured in a road in Dorset.

In a statement his family said they were "devastated" and that their Christmas was "ruined".

Mr Colegate was found at the junction of Darby's Lane and Heath Avenue in Poole on Friday at about 19:25 GMT.

'Do the right thing'

He was taken to Poole Hospital but died a short time later.

His family said Mr Colegate "always looked forward to spending time with his grandchildren and enjoyed building things with them".

"It will never be the same again and it is already difficult for them to understand.

"We would urge the driver involved in the collision to do the right thing and contact the police," they added.

Sgt Stuart Pitman, from Dorset Police's Traffic Unit, said: "Despite being restricted Mr Colegate maintained his independence, regularly attending a nearby club where he enjoyed socialising.

"I am personally appealing to the driver of the vehicle who struck Mr Colegate to come forward to bring closure, especially for the family at this important time of year."

Police are also appealing for witnesses who may have seen "vehicles driving erratically in the area at that time".