A fundraising page set up by the family of a postman hit by a suspected drink-driver has smashed its target.

Vince Marsh’s family started the page in a bid to raise money for the air ambulance after he suffered serious injuries and had to be airlifted to hospital.

It was hoped £500 would be raised for Kent, Surrey & Sussex Air Ambulance Trust but supporters have gone above and beyond the target, donating more than £800 so far.

The 59-year-old was out on his delivery rounds when he was struck by a car in Margate on Saturday, January 6.

Mr Marsh’s family say they are pleased with the amount raised and that there is more to be added from collections the post office has taken.

They said: “We are overly pleased with the amount of money raised in such a short time

“The air ambulance saves lives daily and it’s great that money has been raised to help keep this great service running.

“It’s not usually a service you think about until the day you need them.”

Mr Marsh’s son says it could be months before his dad is discharged from hospital.

He said: “Dad has been moved to St Thomas’ hospital in London for more operations and skin grafts.

“Due to the extent of his injuries it is likely he will stay in the intensive care wards in London for a few more months I’m afraid.”

Well-wishers have left messages of support along with their donations, wishing Mr Marsh ‘a speedy recovery’ and praising the air ambulance for ‘their amazing work’.

Paramedics and the air ambulance were called to College Road on January 6 and Mr Marsh, of Birchington, had to be airlifted to King’s College Hospital in London.

He suffered a head injury, deep cuts, a fractured eye socket, four broken ribs, bruising and cuts all over, as well as a broken leg and shattered knee cap.

A 43-year-old woman from Margate was arrested on suspicion of drink driving and has since been released pending further inquiries.

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