FLORAL tributes have been placed at the scene of a crash that claimed the life of an elderly Poole man on Friday morning.

The collision between the 89-year-old pedestrian and a black Chrysler took place on Poole Road outside the Railway Hotel, Branksome, around 6.30am.

Flowers have been tied to lampposts near the scene.

One poignant message simply reads: “Mr Smith, we will miss serving you your morning paper. We will miss that happy face of yours.

“You were such a lovely gentleman. You will be forever missed and in our hearts. RIP.”

The message is signed ‘from your Ethel (Soph) and family’.

A 27-year-old Bournemouth man, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, and has been helping police with their inquiries.

Meanwhile, officers investigating the incident remain eager for witnesses to come forward.

Sergeant Rhiannon Stroud, of Dorset Police’s Traffic Unit, said: “I am appealing to anyone who witnessed the collision or saw the manner of driving of the black Chrysler or a male pedestrian carrying a white bag immediately prior to the collision to call Dorset Police.

“I know a number of cars were travelling behind the Chrysler at the time and left the scene before police arrived. I am particularly keen to speak to these drivers as I believe that they may be able to assist the investigation.”

The collision led to gridlock between Poole and Bournemouth throughout Friday morning’s rush-hour, as specially-trained crash investigators closed Poole Road for around six hours.

The deceased’s next of kin have been informed.