DISTRAUGHT friends of a popular young man who tragically died after being hit by a car have launched fundraising drive to pay for his funeral.

Conor Wells, 20, died after being hit by a car in Somnes Avenue, Canvey, during the early hours of Sunday, November 24.

Friends of the young man have now spearheaded the online funding to collect £1,000 to help the family of Conor Wells with funeral costs and other expenses.

Nicola Cantwell, 39, a family friend, said: “I wanted to do a tiny bit to help the family at this most difficult time.”

She paid tribute the community’s “incredible support”

Nicola added: “It just goes to show what an amazing community we are on Canvey, pulling together and supporting our own.

“The family are very grateful for all the support and kindness, that people have shown.

“He was a lovely young man.

“We cannot thank everyone enough for all the support.

“Everyone is so amazing, let’s keep going. Please keep sharing and donating to show Conor’s family what a fantastic community we are a part of and how we always look after our own.”

The page has already exceeded its target, with £1,465 pledged.

Eighty-nine supporters have so far stepped in with donations to help Conor’s family following his tragic death.

One posted: “Thinking of you all, such a tragic waste of a young man’s life who was clearly adored by many.”

One of the organisers posted on Facebook to thank everyone for the kind donations.

Essex Police were called just before 4.20am on Sunday November 24 to reports a pedestrian had been hit by a Vauxhall Astra in Somnes Avenue, between the junctions with Link Road and Canvey Road.

An inquest into Conor’s death, held at Chelmsford coroner’s court, found he died as a result of head injuries.

The hearing heard that a prosecution in connection with the incident is possible.

A 37-year-old man, from Canvey, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

n To support the fundraising campaign in memory of Conor, log onto www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/conorwells