The family of a young dad who was killed in a hit-and-run have paid tribute to a “loving and devoted father”.

Relatives of 20-year-old Charlie Hancock have spoken for the first time after he was run down by a car in Rowan Way, Bognor, on Monday night.

It comes as Sussex Police confirm that they have launched a murder investigation into his death.

It is believed he was involved in an argument with a man in a grey Chrysler Voyager before he was hit at around 10pm.

His family, in a statement, said: “Charlie was a larger than life character who was liked and remembered by everyone who met him.

“He was fearless, honourable, loving and devoted to his family as a son, brother, uncle and father.

“His legacy is that so many of the tears shed by us now, stem from memories of the many times he made us laugh.”

Mr Hancock, of Nyetimber Lane, Pagham, recently became a dad and is pictured with his son, Lenny.

His sister, Sophia, took to Twitter to pay her respects. She said: “R.I.P Charlie Hancock, I promise you Lenny is going to be brought up the best way he can. Still waiting for you to walk through the door now.”

In another post she described him as “the most protective and amazing man”.

He was taken to St Richard’s Hospital, Chichester, after emergency services attended the scene shortly after 10pm.

He died in hospital in the early hours of Tuesday.

A 41-year-old local man, believed to be the driver of the car, was arrested in connection with the death on Monday night. He remains in custody.

A police spokesman said: “Detectives from the Surrey and Sussex major crime team have launched a murder investigation into his death.

“They are appealing for witnesses who saw two men having an altercation while in a grey Chrysler Voyager vehicle in Rowan Way, Bognor, between 9.30pm and 10pm on Monday to come forward.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting Operation Southwick.