THE family of a seven-year-old hit and run victim have backed a new police appeal urging those protecting the man responsible to turn him in.

Detectives have launched a new poster appeal for information into the death of Olivia Whiteside after revealing that they believe the community knows who the driver is but are too afraid to come forward.

Olivia died after she was knocked down by a black, 4x4 Range Rover, which fled from the scene.

She had been playing near to her aunt Emma's home at 6.50pm on July 27 at the junction of Billinge Street and Dalton Close in Higher Audley, Blackburn.

Olivia's mum, Laura, of Little Harwood, urged the perpetrator's family to show courage and come forward.

Speaking exclusively to the Lancashire Telegraph, she said: "We scattered Olivia's ashes on Friday at Pleasington but we can't have complete closure until police have brought this man to justice.

"I hate him for what he has done to our family. It is us serving a life sentence.

"I just always think Olivia is going to walk out and when I go past her school and see all the children playing there is space where Olivia should be.

"It is disgusting that this man just drove off and I would urge those who know who killed my daughter to hand him in.

"It makes me fuming to know that he is still out there and people are protecting him. I hope people see these posters are have the courage to come forward so we can move on with our lives."

Detective Inspector Neil Hunter said: "I am positive someone in the community has some vital information to help with our investigation and they are not sharing that information with us."

He appealed personally to those who know who the driver is: "If you are concerned about speaking to the police, please be reassured that you don't have to leave any personal details. Crimestoppers is also an anonymous way to report crime where you do not have to leave your name or address and they don't trace or tape your calls.."

Today, community police officers are hand delivering over 100 leaflets to local residents, with details on how they can report crime anonymously. The leaflet also has an artist's impression of the vehicle involved in the collision.

Olivia's aunt Emma Whiteside, of Newton Street, added: "The person who did this is still out there and they have to live with their guilt for the rest of their lives.

"How could someone just drive away and leave a child for dead? Olivia hadn't even begun to live her life. We will never see her grow up and have her own family.

"Now we just want justice for Olivia."

l Anyone with any information should contact Blackburn police on 01254 51212 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."