IT is five years since Janet Ford lost her daughter in a hit-and-run accident.

But she has not given up hope that the driver will be identified.

On Monday, Ms Ford, her partner Dean Robey, her son Kye, and some of Gemma Rolfe's family and friends, will gather at the spot where she died, as they do every year to remember her.

The couple, from Erith, will place flyers throughout the area in pubs and on lampposts and bus stops, appealing for those who know who was driving the stolen white van which killed Gemma to come forward, as they have done every year since 2003,Gemma, 12, was being driven to her Guides meeting by her stepfather, Mr Robey, at around 7pm on May 19, 2003 when his Suzuki Vitara was hit by a stolen white Austin Maestro van at the junction of Slade Green Road and Canada Road, Slade Green.

Gemma had to be cut out of the wreckage, but died at the scene. Mr Robey was injured.

The driver, and others who were in the van, fled.

Four youths were later arrested but released without charge.

Extensive tests and ID parades have failed to provide enough evidence to charge anyone, although the driver's name was well known to residents in the area.

But Ms Ford and Mr Robey say they have not given up hope that even now, someone will come forward with information.

Ms Ford said: "I still want to believe we will get justice for Gemma.

"I am still optimistic someone's conscience will persuade them to come forward."

Ms Ford still visits Erith School, where Gemma was a pupil, to present an annual achievement award in Gemma's name, to one of her former classmates.

She, Mr Robey and family and friends will place a wreath of flowers spelling Gemma's name at the site of her death on Monday and Ms Ford says she will continue to do so until the driver who killed Gemma is found.

Ms Ford said: "Please don't make us suffer another year without any justice.

"Make a stand against the scum who have got away with this for five years."

She added: "It will never bring Gemma back, but her family would be able to put her to rest."

Anyone with information can call Bexley police on 020 8301 1212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.