Buggy ruined in smash

A pensioner's electric buggy has been written off after he was involved in a suspected hit-and-run while making his way home from a shopping trip.

Dennis Clark, from Cannock, was left shocked and bruised after the front of his cart was struck as he was about to turn off The Parade in Brownhills, leaving it without both of its front wheels.

The 76-year-old was left shocked and bruised and is now struggling to get around.

He told today how the buggy had been his lifeline for around eight years as he cannot walk any distance because he suffers from emphysema and bronchitis. Mr Clark, of High Street, Norton Canes, does not know what exactly happened when he was hit but does not believe he was doing anything wrong.

He said: "I had my indicator going and was waiting to turn off the road when all of a sudden I heard a thud.

"I don't know what happened. I suspect the front of my buggy was hit by a car or a van which drove off without stopping.

"As far as I'm concerned I wasn't doing anything wrong. The loss of my buggy is a massive blow as I need it to get around. I have got a bus pass but the main problem is I struggle to walk anywhere which is why my buggy is so useful."

Mr Clark said he paid £3,500 for it eight years ago. He is hoping his insurance will cover him for the accident and enable him to buy a replacement.

Paramedics and police were sent to the scene following the drama, which happened at 4pm yesterday. Mr Clark suffered a cut to his forehead while paramedics also strapped his left knee.

Insp Gary Plant, of Bloxwich police, said the road policing unit at Bloxwich is investigating. Anyone with information should call 0845 113 5000.