THE family of a Southampton computer expert who died after being hit by a high-powered sports car are demanding justice after learning the driver will not be prosecuted.

Father-of-four Laurie Griffiths had popped out for some fresh air when he was killed by a blue Maserati Coupe, which had lost control and mounted the pavement.

The 55-year-old, who lived in nearby Bassett Row, suffered extensive injuries and was certified dead at the scene.

Police arrested the driver, who hasn't been named, and a passenger. They are a Southampton couple in their 50s. Both were questioned in connection with the tragedy on November 23.

Now the police investigation has been completed, no charges are to be brought.

Today Mr Griffiths' devastated widow Alison, 54, of Wordsworth Road, Shirley, said: "The whole system has let my husband down.

"When I was told the driver would not be charged, my reaction was one of total disbelief.

"I have not only lost a husband, but four grown-up children have lost their dad and two grandchildren will grow up without their granddad."

Mrs Griffiths is meeting with Southampton Test MP Alan Whitehead on Friday to discuss the case, and plans to contact RoadPeace, the national charity for road traffic victims.

A freelance computer programmer, Mr Griffiths had been working from home on the day of the fatal collision.

He is thought to have been walking to a local post-box to clear his head when he was struck by the Maserati which was heading north.

A keen sailor and musician, he played a leading role in the Southampton-based Spike Island Band barn dance group.

Living apart from but still close to his wife, he left two sons, two daughters and one grandson.

Two weeks ago, his eldest daughter Katherine, 34, gave birth to a baby girl, Martha. Younger daughter Rachel, 22, a linguistics student at Reading University, broke down in tears as she said: "My dad was my strength. I feel so frustrated at the outcome.

"The police have been fantastic all the way through and I don't doubt their investigation has been full but we are told there is insufficient evidence.

"I can't believe there isn't someone out there who didn't see what happened as was 4.50pm on a busy Saturday when Saints had just beaten Arsenal."

David Renwick, the Crown Prosecution Service's Eastleigh trial unit head, today confirmed no one would face criminal proceedings as a result of the collision.

He said: "I can confirm that Hampshire police submitted a full file for advice.

"The evidence was considered applying the tests set out in the code for Crown prosecutors and, following consultation with the police, advice has been given that there is insufficient evidence for a prosecution."

Sgt Kevin Allen, of Eastleigh traffic police, said officers were now preparing file for the Southampton coroner and a full inquest would take place in due course.