Fundraisers are rallying around a pensioner who lost his beloved pet dog in a car accident.

Ken Pattison, 73, was crossing Woodlands Road in Gillingham on Monday, May 23, when his chihuahua Rita was hit.

Passers-by including Richard Greenfield rushed to his aid and took the owner and dog to the vets, but sadly Rita later died, leaving Mr Pattison without his beloved pet and facing a £1,600 vet bill.

Also among those who helped were Aaron Ludlow, who has since set up a fundraising page to – https://crowdfunding.justgiving.com/Ritaandken – to help buy Mr Pattison a new dog and with bills, and has already raised £535 of a £600 target.

“Let’s raise as much as we can to help Ken find a new loving furry companion so he is no longer alone,” writes Mr Ludlow. “And if things really take off and we smash the target then any extra money will help towards the vet bills.”

Commenting on the page, Mr Pattison said he was heartened by the help he’d since received.

“I’m so surprised there is so many kind hearted people out there who will help a stranger,” he said. “I’m finding it hard to believe.

“But I now know that it’s true. God bless you all, and thank you.
“Just need my lovely Rita back. It’s broken my heart.”

Mr Greenfield's wife Susan has also set up a fundraising page https://www.gofundme.com/25w3rcc which has so far raised £310.