A BELOVED puppy died in the arms of his owners after being hit by a “speeding” car which failed to stop.

Erick, a Spanish Podenco, was thrown 50 feet in the air on Swan Lane, Wickford, landing just metres from his owner who was desperately trying to catch the pup.

The dog, who was just 20 months old, had come back from a walk with the family’s other pooch Erknee, before both dogs bolted after a cat.

Erknee, three, and Erick were both running into oncoming traffic on Swan Lane, before the puppy was hit by a car - allegedly speeding.

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Tom Bullman, 52, who saw the accident happen in front of his eyes, slammed the driver responsible. The 52-year-old, said: “It was all in slow motion. He just landed at my feet once he was hit.

“He just looked at me in despair, I felt so helpless.

“Not even a minute after he was hit, I knew I was going to lose him.

“Next time the driver drives along Swan Lane, I hope he’s not speeding and is paying attention, it could be a child next time.”

The family believe the black Mercedes was driving faster than 50mph at the time of the crash.

Swan Lane has a speed limit of 30mph.

Mae Bullman, 22, has now issued an appeal for anyone who saw the cars number plate to come forward.

She said: “On behalf of my family, I would like to say thank you to everyone who helped my dad and my puppy.

“He will be missed by everyone.

“To the person who hit my dog, if you see this, please think about what you’re doing when you’re driving twice the speed limit. You have completely devastated my family.”

The Bullman’s are now considering buying another Spanish Podenco.

Mr Bullman added: “We will never replace Eric, he was a right little sod.

“I’ve never seen Sue and Mae so devastated. I can’t drive on the road, I have to take de-tours around it.

“It’s a shocking and tragic accident. They were waiting, as they always do, to come in the house, but Ernie saw a cat and ran off.

“We were all out looking for them. They ran in front of my car on Swan Lane.

“I pulled over and tried to wave down drivers. I couldn’t believe it when they just drove off.”