A young driver who was arrested after a man was knocked down and killed during the early hours of New Year's Day has been bailed pending further inquiries.

The 21-year-old from Gillingham, who has not been named, was arrested during the early hours after a man in his 50s was killed when he was hit by a Renault Clio as he was crossing Luton Road in Chatham.

The incident happened at 1.08am when the man, who is from Chatham, was struck by the vehicle.

He was pronounced dead at the scene and his next of kin have been informed.

It is understood the vehicle which was later taken away by police for further examination, suffered substantial damage as a result of the impact.

Witnesses reported seeing the windscreen all cracked and dented.

A man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, and he has since been released pending further inquiries.

The tragedy happened just hours after two people were killed when their car hit a tree in Marden, in what was a busy night for the county’s emergency services.

Officers from the serious collision Investigation Unit are appealing for witnesses to the Luton Road incident.

Anyone with information is asked the call the witness appeal line on 01622 798538 or email sciu.td@kent,pnn.police.uk quoting reference DJ/001/18.