THE family of a "cheeky-chappy" pensioner who died following an argument with a motorist is pleading for witnesses to come forward.

Met police are investigating the death of 75-year-old John Wells from Sydenham, who collapsed and died following a row in Brownhill Road, Catford.

Mr Wells had been arguing with the rider of a silver scooter for two or three minutes before getting back into his silver Citroen Grand Picasso.

He then reversed into three cars before getting out of his vehicle and collapsing. He died later that day in Lewisham Hospital.

Speaking at Mr Wells' home in Bell Green Lane, his 45-year-old son, David, said: "It would really help us to move on if we knew exactly what happened.

"At the moment it is a complete mystery.

"If anyone knows or saw anything - then please come forward and talk to the police."

Mr Wells' second son, Clive, aged 44, said: "Our dad was such a character and very popular in the area.

"When he walked through Lewisham and Catford - all of the street traders knew him and he knew all their names.

"He had a wicked sense of humour and was a really cheeky chappy who had an eye for the ladies."

Officers would like to speak to the scooter rider who was seen arguing with Mr Wells on January 23 at around 3.25pm.

News Shopper: Police would like to speak to the rider of this scooter.

Investigating officer Sergeant Simon Seeley, from Catford Traffic Garage, said: "We are very keen to trace the rider, although I would like to stress that this is as a significant witness rather than as a suspect.

"The CCTV image gives a clear indication of the scooter, which has a distinctive silver box positioned behind the rider's seat."

Police say the rider was wearing black motorcycle style clothing, which had a silver reflective stripe running along the sleeves and across the shoulder, and a silver helmet.

If you are the scooter rider, or you saw the incident, call police on 020 8285 1574 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

No arrests have been made in connection with the incident.

Mr Wells, a retired electrician who lived alone, leaves behind two sons and three grandchildren.