POLICE hunting a hit-and-run driver who left a Hampshire schoolboy fighting for his life have issued a fresh appeal for information.

Officers are hoping their latest plea for help will persuade anyone with vital information about the accident to examine their conscience and come forward.

It comes as the devastated parents of Ryan Liddon released a picture of their son fighting for his life in hospital.

The 15-year-old was left for dead by the occupants of a car that went out of control and overturned as he walked home.

He was admitted to the neurological unit at Southampton General Hospital, where his condition is described as critical but stable.

As reported in later editions of yesterday's Daily Echo, his parents released the photograph of Ryan lying in his hospital bed in the hope it will lead to a vital breakthrough.

Insp Roger Price of Hampshire police said: "The picture highlights the seriousness of the incident. I'm sure there are a number of people with information, but they either aren't aware of our appeals for help or are choosing to ignore them. I would urge them to examine their conscience and come forward, even if it's anonymously."

Ryan, of Larkspur Gardens, Holbury, suffered serious head injuries in the accident, which occurred as he walked along Fawley Road, Hythe, last Sunday. He was hit by a silver-coloured Proton car containing two men, who ignored the gravely injured boy lying beside the vehicle and ran off. Police say the car was later reported stolen.

Anthony and Angela Liddon are keeping a vigil at Ryan's bedside. In a statement they said: "How can anybody with a conscience leave our son to die? If anybody out there knows who did this, please come forward."

Anyone with information should contact Operation Lexington at the Eastleigh Roads Policing Unit on 0845 045 4545.