Roughly 100 people gathered in Erith last week to demand justice for a schoolgirl killed in a hit-and-run collision.

Grieving mum Janet Robey said she was “overwhelmed” by the turn-out for the 20th anniversary of her daughter Gemma’s killing.

Gemma Rolfe, 12, died on May 19, 2003, when a stolen van smashed into the car she was travelling in with her stepfather Dean Robey, on her way to Girl Guides.

Mr Robey was among those who gathered last Friday at the site of the crash, at the junction of Canada Road and Slade Green Road.

The family holds an annual vigil there to maintain community awareness of the unsolved crime, in the hope that new witnesses will come forward.

This Is Local London: Janet Robey with a treasured photograph of herself and GemmaJanet Robey with a treasured photograph of herself and Gemma (Image: Charles Thomson)

In particular, the inquest into Gemma’s death heard that a white female driving a red Rover Metro was in the area and was believed to have seen the van driver – but she has never been traced.

The News Shopper reported earlier this year that police were making enquiries as part of a review of Gemma’s death.

“The investigation remains open and though many years have passed, we remain committed to achieving justice,” the force said.

Janet said the turn-out at this year’s vigil was the biggest since the 10th anniversary.

“It was an absolutely amazing turn-out,” she said. “I wish I could mention everyone individually. I was literally overwhelmed.

“Normally there’s a handful of people that go. Obviously, people more on with their lives. But this year there was over 100 people.

“There were teachers from Gemma’s school. Representatives from the Girl Guides. The nurse who tended to Gemma at the hospital was there.”

This Is Local London: More than 100 people attended the vigil, said Gemma's mother Janet RobeyMore than 100 people attended the vigil, said Gemma's mother Janet Robey (Image: Rolfe/Robey family)

The Metropolitan Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit has this week renewed its call for anyone with information about the driver’s identity to come forward.

Earlier this year, Janet issued her own challenge via the News Shopper.

“Gemma’s whole family have done a 20-year sentence,” she said. “Stop being a coward and hiding. Give Gemma’s family the justice they deserve.”

The Met Police said anybody with information should call 0208 285 1574.

Alternatively, they can anonymously call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111, or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org.