THE brother of a 64-year-old Ryedale man left for dead at the side of a road after a hit-and-run accident today pleaded for help in bringing the driver to justice.

Because the motorist has never appeared before a court, Sid Wilson, of Ryegate, Helmsley, has never received compensation for his terrible injuries and has not been able to work since.

A self-employed labourer and gardener before last Septem-ber's accident, he now has to claim disability benefit.

His brother, Norman, 72, who lives with Sid and who narrowly missed being hit by the car himself, said someone in the car must still have a guilty conscience.

"I wish they would own up, be a man about it, come forward and admit they were to blame," he said.

Sid was walking along the pavement in Bridge Street, Helmsley, with Norman on the evening of Friday, September 2, when a car, believed to have been travelling at about 60mph, crossed the road, mounted the kerb and careered into him from behind.

He was taken by paramedics to the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton, where he was treated for a fractured skull, fractured ankle, and a broken leg which needed to be pinned and plated.

When a blood clot was found on his brain, Sid had to be rushed to hospital in Middlesbrough.

He spent a total of three months in the two hospitals.

"This driver is still on the loose," said Norman.

"You would think someone would know more about it and we want to jog people's memories."

Norman said he believed there were four people in the car, who were listening to very loud music.

He had been unable to see the car's number plate as it sped off up the street after the accident.

Norman, who said Sid could not remember the hit-and-run, added: "It's on my mind all the time."

North Yorkshire Police have joined the appeal for information. Sgt David Elders, of North Yorkshire traffic police, said: "We would urge anyone who has any information to come forward."

Contact Malton police on 01723 509612.

Updated: 10:20 Saturday, June 16, 2001