The family of an Alzheimer's sufferer believed to be the victim of an early morning hit-and-run are appealing to the public for more information.

Brian Mitchell, of Lowestoft, was found on the side of the High Street at 12.50am on Wednesday, November 15, after being struck by a vehicle.

He was rushed to James Paget University Hospital, in Gorleston, with a broken wrist, a number of broken and dislocated fingers and a suspected broken leg.

The 86-year-old underwent two separate surgical procedures on his fingers and is currently recuperating at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.

His injuries mean he is currently unable to walk and restricted to a hospital bed.

Mr Mitchell was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in January and due to his condition has been unable to describe the incident to police.

The retired builder's confused state has led to further complications after he suffered two falls overnight while trying to leave his bed.

Graham Mitchell has spoken of his father's ongoing distress.

He said: 'He is in a strange environment, for him the trauma is getting worse all the while.'

Graham said his father often goes for walks throughout the day.

'For dad time is irrelevant and he has always gone for strolls in the afternoon,' he said.

'Sadly this is the first time he has gone out at that sort of time.'

The impact of the incident has been traumatic for the entire family, especially for Brian's wife Jean.

Graham added: 'My mother is devastated. My parents married in 1951 and have never had time apart.

'She is really struggling not being able to be with him.'

Graham is appealing for those responsible to hand themselves into police.

He said: 'In my opinion, to just drive off and leave him they have no remorse.

'If my dad hadn't have managed to crawl across the road he could have been hit again and this would be a totally different story.

'This has been devastating for my family – just give yourself up.'

Witnesses or anybody who has any information regarding the incident is asked to call Lowestoft Police on 101 quoting reference 'CAD 6 of November 15'.