The family of a three-year-old boy, who died on Sunday after being struck by a car understood to have been driven by his mother outside the family home, have paid tribute to their “darling little man”.

Liam Turner died after suffering serious head injuries in a crash with a car at Adlandoad, Carbrooke, near Watton, at about 2.30pm on Sunday.

His family said in a statement: “We are devastated by the loss of our darling little man.

“Liam was a happy, content little boy who was always smiling and laughing. He had a wonderful sense of humour and brought joy to the lives of everyone who knew him. He was deeply loved.

“Life will not be the same without him. We ask for space to come to terms with our grief.”

Mid Norfolk MP George Freeman said: “This is a tragic time and I am sure I speak for all in mid Norfolk in sending our condolences to the family and friends of the child in this terrible tragedy.

“Having spent much time during the election campaign in Watton and Carbrooke I know firsthand how strong the community spirit is in the area and how hurt the local community will be feeling.”

The Rev Jane Atkins, vicar at Carbrooke’s St Peter and St Paul Church, said: “I have spoken to some young people on the estate, and some not so young people as well – people who are desperate to do something about showing their solidarity and just being alongside the family.

“As always it is difficult, because you don’t want to intrude but you do want to help.”

Adland Road is at the back of the Blenheim Grange estate, built on part of the former RAF Watton site. Phil Sampher, chairman of the Blenheim Grange Residents’ Association, said: “The family are in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time.”

It is believed the boy was knocked down close to his home by the car driven by his mum while playing with his older sister.

He was then taken to hospital by car by a relative.

An ambulance was flagged down while they were travelling on Norwich Road in Watton to hospital and the child was treated by paramedics.

He was taken to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital by land ambulance where he died last night.

Norwich Road was closed while emergency services dealt with the incident and an area in Adland Drive was also sealed off while police carried out inquiries.

Norwich Road was re-opened shortly before 5pm yesterday.

A neighbour, who wished not to be named, said: “It is very sad. I didn’t know him at all but it is shocking.

“I was coming home from the shops at about 3.30pm and it was all roped off.

“We didn’t realise what had happened until we saw the news.”

A Norfolk police spokesman said no one has been arrested.

•Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call police on 101.