The family of a boy killed in a hit-and-run say the whole community is invited to the funeral, to reflect the seven-year-old’s generous and kind nature.

Manchester United fan William Brown died after being struck by a car in Sandgate, near Folkestone, while fetching his football on Wednesday evening (December 6).

The community has rallied behind his grieving family, with a one-minute silence set to be held at Folkestone Invicta Football Club at tonight’s match against Hastings in memory of the youngster, who attended games with his dad.

And while a date is yet to be confirmed for the funeral, William Brown Sr, the schoolboy’s dad, says everyone is invited, including those who are struggling.

He said of his son: "He would speak to you and approach you, to make sure you're alright.

"We want to make it a community outreach, anyone hurting, anyone with struggles, we are going to encourage them to go to the funeral.

"Anyone's welcome. Will would accept anyone if they needed his help. He was pure of heart.”

The funeral is expected to take place at the Church of St Mary and St Eanswythe, in Folkestone, where the family are hoping William will also be laid to rest.

An order from The Privy Council from 1855 means the churchyard was closed to burials 168 years ago and that order remains in place today.

It is currently illegal for a person to be buried in the grounds, something the church is hoping to reverse to honour the family’s wishes. William regularly played there after school, and it was one of his “favourite” places, his family say.

Revd Dr John Walker from the Church of St Mary and St Eanswythe, told KentOnline today: “The order is from 1855 so it is very old.

“We don't know exactly who has to give what permission to be able to change the order but that is being investigated by the Church of England legal team.

“We are doing all we can to find a solution.”

A book of condolences has also been opened at the church which people are invited to sign.

Meanwhile, a fundraiser for William’s funeral has reached more than £18,700.

The youngster’s grieving family had hoped to raise more than £10,000 to help “give him the send-off he truly deserves” but have since beaten that target thanks to the help of hundreds of people.

A 49-year-old man was arrested in Dymchurch almost 24 hours after William was knocked down.

He was questioned by detectives on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, causing death by careless driving, failing to stop at the scene of a collision and perverting the course of justice.

He has now been released on bail until March 6.

Police say the fatal collision near the junction with Prospect Road involved two vehicles – a grey Peugeot van and a red Citroen car.

The van left the scene in the direction of Hythe, before the arrival of emergency services.

Medics tried desperately to resuscitate William for 40 minutes but were unable to save his life and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

An appeal for witnesses was also launched, with anyone with information urged to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01622 798538, quoting reference MM/DGC/130/23. You can also email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk

Drivers were also asked to check dashcams or CCTV for any footage that may help the investigation, including footage in the area before and after the incident, which can be submitted to police here.

No other arrests have been made in connection with the incident.