by Alex Claridge
aclaridge@thekmgroup.co.uk

A grandad from Chartham was killed when his motorbike was hit by a lorry on Tuesday morning.

Michael Laker, 68, of Bakers Lane, was killed as he rode his Yamaha to work along The Street in Molash at 6.40am.

He was taken to the Royal London Hospital in east London by air ambulance, but died there shortly afterwards.

In his earlier life, he had worked at Palmer’s newspaper wholesaler, at Chartham Paper Mill and at East Kent Buses and also when they became Stagecoach.

Mr Laker's wife Heather Laker, 67, said: “He was a very cheerful and helpful man and he was only too willing to help others if they needed it."

Police have not revealed exactly how the accident happened. They say the driver of the lorry was shaken but unhurt.

The A252 between Chilham and Challock was closed until 2.30pm on Tuesday as crash investigators examined the scene.

Anyone else with information can call the serious crash investigation unit on 01622 798538.

See this week's Gazette for full report and tributes.