Grieving family and friends have paid tribute to a motorcyclist who was killed in a crash.

Mick Cooper, 65, of Ashford, died after his machine was in collision with a tractor on the A20 near Ashford two days ago.

His family posted on his Facebook page: "Our hearts were broken beyond belief when Mick passed away after a motorbike accident.

"My mum has asked me to write this she wants to thank everyone for there kind messages but is asking for some privacy at this very hard time.

"As most of you will know they were together 22 years.

"Mick was a brilliant grandad to our Layla and they loved each other dearly."

Mr Cooper, also known as Micky Sea, worked at the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford and studied environmental science at Canterbury Christ Church University, according to his Facebook page.

The family tribute post was followed by a long stream of condolence messages by relatives, friends and well-wishers.

One man wrote; "Sorry for your loss, he was a great bloke."

A woman wrote:" I am so so sorry to hear this. I for one will miss our chats at the Harvey. So sad, such a nice man."

Another woman said: "I am so very sorry about the sad loss of Micky.

"I was at school with and new his family my nan and grandad lived next door but one I will miss chatting to him on Facebook."

The accident had happened at about 3.50pm last Friday.

Police said the motorbike was travelling along the A20 from Ashford at Potters Corner towards Hothfield when it collided with the back of a tractor and hay baler.

Both vehicles had been going in the same direction.

Mr Cooper died at the scene.

Kent Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit yesterday appealed for witnesses to the crash.

Officers want both eyewitnesses and and those who may have dash cam film along the A20 from the Drover's Roundabout.

Anyone who can help can contact the witness appeal line on 01622 798538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk, quoting reference JG/88/18.