A popular pensioner known as 'honest Tom' by friends is in a coma after he was struck by a van.

A man has been charged with attempted murder and causing serious injury by dangerous driving after Thomas Robinson, 70, was hit by a Volkswagen Transporter in Rye Road, Sandhurst, on Monday, March 2.

A fundraising page has now been set up for the retired bricklayer, from Sandhurst, by friend Tom Ferguson.

Mr Ferguson said: "I have known him many years and we call him honest Tom for a reason.

"He doesn't have much in life but is one of the precious few people who still live an old fashioned life-style. When he comes out of hospital his whole life is going to be turned on its head and what has happened to him has just taken away the little liberty he had left in old age.

"I have always helped him as a dear friend and would like to raise money to make alterations in his very humble home to assist him as much as possible when he comes out of the intensive care unit."

Mr Robinson, who has lived in Sandhurst all his life with his two brothers, suffered life-threatening injuries during the collision and was flown to hospital.

He has been placed in an induced coma, his younger brother Matthew, 54, said.

Matthew said: "He is very well known and popular. A lot of people are concerned for him, at the moment we are just waiting."

Charles Wood, 58, of Rye Road, Sandhurst, appeared at Medway Magistrates' Court on Thursday, March 5 to face the charges and has been granted bail with conditions.

He will attend Maidstone Crown Court next month.

Kent Police confirmed that Mr Wood and Mr Robinson know each other.

To donate to the crowd funding page, click here.

To get the latest updates in ongoing cases, police appeals and criminals put behind bars, click here.

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