An investigation into the death of a man hit by a police car in Hastings will be supervised by the police watchdog.

James Sutton, of Silchester Road, St Leonards died when he was hit by the police car on the A259 White Rock, Hastings, on Wednesday, March 12.

A post mortem into the 46-year-old father's death was held at Brighton Mortuary on Monday, March 17.

The coroner found his death was caused by multiple injuries. Police are still awaiting results of toxicology tests.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission has announced it will supervise Sussex Police's investigation into the incident.

This means alongside the road death investigation the force will also carry out a professional standards investigation, the terms of which will be approved by the IPCC.

Chief Inspector Natalie Moloney said; "Our thoughts are with all those involved and particularly with Mr Sutton's family, to whom we have been offering support at this very distressing time"

"Anyone who saw what happened is asked to call us on 101 or email collision.appeal@sussex.pnn.police.uk quoting Operation Marshside."

Last week Mr Sutton's daughter Chloe told the BBC she had heard on social media that someone had died in an accident on the seafront before finding out it was her own father. She added that she and her family want answers about what happened. Tributes and bouquets of flowers were left at the scene. One card read: “Dear James, we'll always look after your little girl Chloe. Peace in the afterlife, from Clive.”

The police car was carrying two officers, one of whom was slightly injured in the collision.