THE Met has issued a fresh appeal on the 10th anniversary of Erith schoolgirl Gemma Rolfe’s unsolved hit and run death.

The 12-year-old Erith School pupil died after the car she was travelling in with stepfather Dean Robey was hit by a stolen van in Slade Green Road, near the junction with Canada Road, Slade Green, on May 19, 2003 at around 7.10pm.

News Shopper has been running a series of stories appealing for anyone with any information on Gemma’s death to come forward in advance of a vigil being held at the spot she was killed this Sunday evening (May 19).

Now the Met has backed this call with a new appeal for information from anyone who may know anything about the fatal collision between Mr Robey’s Suzuki Vitara and a stolen white Maestro van from which the driver fled.

Detective Sergeant Mick Woollard said: "We wholeheartedly endorse the News Shopper’s call for new information and witnesses.

“At the time of the collision it may have been that those who knew the identity of the driver were scarred to come forward, even intimidated.

“Today I appeal to anyone with information to have the courage of their convictions and contact police.

“If they wish to remain completely anonymous they can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Bexley police Detective Chief Inspector Gary Holmes added: "What happened 10 years ago was a tragedy that robbed a family of a daughter, friends of a playmate and a bright future for 12-year-old Gemma, who at the time was full of life.

“Someone out there knows who was driving that stolen van in Slade Green Road.

“If they have any decency at all I urge them to give the family of Gemma Rolfe some closure by giving us the identity of the driver, who ran like a coward from the scene of the accident.”

Visit Gemma's Facebook page or get involved in the campaign at hazefmuk.com/justice or on Twitter at twitter.com/VWKel

Lookout for News Shopper’s coverage of Gemma’s vigil and balloon release next week.

Did you know Gemma and have any memories you would like to share? Ring 01689 885702, e-mail tim.macfarlan@london.newsquest.co.uk or tweet @NewsShopperTim