AN autistic woman may not walk for a year after she mowed down by a hit and run driver while walking her dog.

Martina Galvin, 33, suffered a raft of horrific injuries after after being run over in Clay Hill Road, Basildon on Wednesday.

Her frantic brother, Andrew Galvin, 31, is appealing for people to examine their consciences and help police find the person responsible.

Mr Galvin, who is his sister’s carer, said: “I would just say to this person, ‘if you have a conscience, then come forward’.

“The driver’s vehicle must have sustained significant damage to the windscreen and the bonnet.

“My message to the community, to taxi drivers, car mechanics, post men, neighbours, if you suspect you know who did this then just contact the police.”

Miss Galvin, was walking the family’s Jack Russell, Pat, at about 1.30pm on Wednesday when she was hit by the car.

She suffered broken ankles, shattered shins, broken knees, collarbone and shoulders.

She was airlifted to the specialist trauma centre at Queens Hospital in Romford and later transferred to the Royal London Hospital in Whitechapel where she is undergoing treatment.

Mr Galvin, said his sister is awake but cannot remember much about the accident.

He said: “The last thing she remembers is walking Pat in the park.

“I was at at work when the news came through. Pat, is microchipped and the emergency services rang to say the dog’s walker had been in accident.

“I arrived home and saw the air ambulance and my heart just sank.”

Miss Galvin had an operation at the weekend to insert metal pins in to her legs.

The family, who live in Clay Hill Road, are waiting to find out when doctors can next operate.

Mr Galvin added: “She will be in hospital for about six months but it could be a year before she walks again.

“Martina was in good spirits for the first few days but now she is getting frustrated.

“Because she is autistic she cannot understand why she is not allowed out. She is feeling pretty low.

“My sister was totally innocent. The person who did this was very cold. I would just ask anyone with information to please come forward.”

Mr Galvin thanked the emergency services who helped his sister and people who have posted many messages of support on her Facebook page.

Anyone with information should contact PC Jenny Pirie at the serious collision investigation unit at Essex Police on 101.

Alternatively email collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.