The mum of a Sheppey policeman who died while on duty has thanked people for their support during the years since his death.

It was four years ago on Friday that PC Phillip Pratt was hit by a car while diverting traffic away from an accident on the A249.

It happened on the Maidstone-bound carriageway at Bobbing while he was putting out cones.

The 26-year-old was treated by paramedics at the scene before being airlifted to the Royal London Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Since then, his parents Christine and Ted Pratt, of The Broadway, Minster, have been fundraising for the Kent Air Ambulance.

On Saturday, a coffee morning was held at the Bethel Church Hall, Chapel Street, Minster, to support the charity.

It is something the family organise every year, and at the weekend £355 was raised.

There were a range of stalls including white elephant, cakes, books and plants as well as a raffle and tombola.

It costs around £2,500 each time the helicopter is called out and it relies on donations to keep going.

Mrs Pratt says she thinks it’s something everyone should support as you don’t know if you and your family might need it one day.

“When Phillip died there were two air ambulances there,” she said.

“It’s something everybody should be aware of because it’s self-funded and you never know when you might need it yourself.

“You don’t realise how wonderful the doctors and paramedics are.

“I’d like to say thank you to everyone that came along and for supporting the air ambulance – they need all the help they can get.

“It was a lovely atmosphere and it’s very nice people are so kind.”

Mrs Pratt and her family went to visit her son’s grave on the anniversary and she says she’s touched that people still take the time to lay flowers there.

“It’s lovely – people still remember and send cards saying we are in their thoughts and prayers,” she added.

“People are so kind and we have been very lucky with all the support we have had.

“There’s a lot of love out there.”