“HE was a true gentleman” — these were the words used to describe a former Oxfordshire doctor who died after being run over by his own car.

Dr Salim Verjee, of Fyfield, who was killed at the weekend, practised at Kennington Health Centre for more than 20 years.

Staff at the centre, where he worked from the late 1970s until he retired in 1996, were shocked and saddened to hear of the 66-year-old’s death.

Yvonne Milward, practice manager, paid tribute to Dr Verjee.

She said: “He was a superb doctor, and loved by colleagues, patients and friends alike.

“He was a true gentleman in every way, with a unique sense of humour, and always had time for a kind word. He will be sorely missed by us all.”

It is believed that Dr Verjee had also worked in the haematology department of the John Radcliffe Hospital in Headington, Oxford, for a number of years.

The pensioner, of Main Road, died after the accident with his silver Mercedes while in the car park at Sonning Golf Club at about midday on Saturday. He was taken to the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading, where he later died from his injuries.

Dr Verjee had been attending a private function at the golf club’s function room and was not a member, said David Howells, club director.

Police would not comment on the exact circumstances of the incident and are appealing for witnesses to contact officers.

Anyone with information should contact Three Mile Cross Roads Policing on 08458 505505 or the confidential Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111.