A MAN who was found dead on the side of an Oakdale road may have been the victim of a hit and run police said today.

Officers investigating the death of Ian Hamilton made a fresh appeal for witnesses yesterday and called for the occupants of a BMW 3 series coupe, captured on CCTV between 2am and 4am on July 17, to come forward.

Police said they also want to speak to anyone else who was the area of Penmaen Road during that time.

Ian Hamilton, 27, of Bristol, was discovered at the side of Penmaen Road between Oakdale and Pontllanfraith in the early hours of July 17.

He was visiting family in the area and is known to have been at a fancy dress party the night before he died.

Mr Hamilton was seen walking from the bus station area in Blackwood, police said, and was walking along Penmaen Road in the direction of Oakdale.

“We have been very pleased that members of the public have come forward and have helped with the investigation,” said Chief Superintendent Alun Thomas, adding that the driver and/or passenger of the BMW may have vital information.

He added: “We are keeping an open mind into how Mr Hamilton died but we cannot discount the possibility that he was a victim of a hit and run incident.

“We, and Mr Hamilton’s family, are anxious to find out what happened to him.”

Drivers and passengers of two other vehicles seen on CCTV have been spoken to, police said, following an appeal last week.

Anyone with information should contact Gwent Police on 101.