POLICE hunting a driver who killed a Waterside schoolboy say the search is being hampered by callers who refuse to give their name.

Officers investigating the death of hit-and-run victim Ryan Liddon are urging people to divulge their identity when they ring in with information.

Police say they cannot use any evidence supplied by callers who refuse to tell them who they are.

Their plea is being echoed by Ryan's grieving parents, Anthony and Angela.

Mrs Liddon said: "We welcome all calls to the police offering information, but please give your name. Anything that will help catch those responsible.

"It's the same information coming up all the time but the police can't do anything because the callers won't say who they are."

Ryan, 15, was walking along Fawley Road, Hythe, on September 12 when he was hit by a Proton car that went out of control.

Two men climbed out of the vehicle and ran off, leaving Ryan lying by the roadside. He died last Thursday.

Scores of people are expected to turn out for his funeral, which will take place on October 11 at 1pm in Fawley Church.

Inspector Roger Price, leading the investigation, said: "We have had information, including names, but it's come from people who rang in anonymously - which means we can't use it as evidence.

"Callers probably think they've done their bit by pointing us in the right direction, but we need a bit more.

"I believe the people responsible for Ryan's death have confided in someone - and I need that person to come forward and make a statement.

"I'd ask them to consider how they would feel if one of their loved ones was killed in such dreadful circumstances, what their expectations of the police would be, and what they would want anyone with information to do."

Ryan, of Larkspur Gardens, Holbury, suffered serious head injuries in the crash and never recovered consciousness.

Floral tributes have been placed at the spot where he was mown down as he walked home after catching the Southampton-Hythe ferry.

One of the tiny candles in front of the flowers is accompanied by a note that says: "I've left this light here so you're not alone in the dark. I hope whoever did this to you will spend eternity all alone in a very dark, cold place."

Other tributes refer to Ryan's sense of humour, his cheeky grin and ability to cheer people up.

Flowers left at the spot are accompanied by a note that reads: "You were my guru and always put a smile on my face."

Another note says: "The angels will be kept laughing."

Information to Operation Lexington at the Eastleigh Roads Policing Unit on 0845 045 4545.