Beloved grandad, 89, killed in horror crash as devastated family pay tribute

A devastated family has paid a moving tribute to a "respected and loved" 89-year-old grandfather after he was hit by a car. Tom Wallace was struck by a grey Mercedes when he was on the A289 Gads Hill at around 12.10pm December 29. Reports say Tom had been carried by the car and was located a distance away.

The vehicle was later found in Eastcourt Lane, some distance from where Tom was lying on the ground in Grange Road. The two occupants of the car had allegedly left on foot.

Tom, a former dental surgeon, was pronounced dead at the scene, despite the best efforts of emergency services. He was described as a "respected and loved member of the community" who "deserved a better end to his life than this".

The family thanked residents in Grange Road who helped Tom, calling them "compassionate and kind". The tribute read: "Tom Wallace. L.D.S, R.C.S.

Eng. had been a dental surgeon in the Medway Towns for all his working life. He had been married for 63 years, was a father of three, a grandfather of four, and recently a great grandfather. "He loved his family dearly and was loved by them in return.

He sailed his boat up and down the east coast, and across the Channel to France, usually single-handed. "For years he was a bell-ringer at the church on Gillingham Green. He was a Samaritan for many years, raised money for the NSPCC and undertook several European cycling tours to raise funds for Marie Curie."

Albert Matraxhiu, 28, from Edgware, was charged with death by dangerous driving. Erald Paci, 29, of Chatham, was charged with perverting the course of justice. Both men were due in court today.

No pleas were offered on these charges, and they were remanded in custody until their next appearance at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday, January 30.