A fundraiser for a bench in memory of an 11-year-old who died after being hit by a minibus has raised more than £1,000 in less than 24 hours.

Szymon Jan Lecznar was struck by the vehicle in Vale Road near the junction with Colyer Road, Northfleet last month.

The Northfleet Technology College pupil died in hospital later that day after suffering multiple injuries.

Daniel Grant, who has set up an online fundraising page, said: "If I am not mistaken this has had a massive impact and has affected a lot of families and children in the local area.

"I have met his parents who are the nicest and most loving people you will meet and have so much gratitude for the support they felt and received from everyone.

"I understand the school have put something in place in remembrance but unfortunately being in the school grounds this is not accessible evenings, weekends or half terms.

"I have now had confirmation from the council and the highway agency to have a memorial bench and area created in place of where the flowers were so that everyone can pay their respects and remember him.

"I have spoken with his family and they are happy for us to do this in his memory.

"Let us all please pay our respect and help this happen, a little from a lot goes a long way."

Last month floral, candle and basketball tributes were laid on the pavement near the scene in Vale Road with messages such as "you will always be remembered" and "you are in a better place now".

An inquest into the basketball player's death was opened on February 16 where the court heard he died at Darent Valley Hospital with the cause of death given as a head injury.

A full inquest hearing examining the circumstances of how Szymon died will take place at a date that is yet to be set.

A teenager, from the Gravesend area, was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter but has since been released under investigation pending further inquires.

At the time of writing the GoFundMe page had raised £1,010 to pay for the bench.

If you would like to donate you can do so here.