by Adam Williams

awilliams@thekmgroup.co.uk

Friends and classmates of a Canterbury College student killed in a road crash earlier this month have been remembering his big heart and big smile.

Josh Hibbert, a second-year plumbing student, died in a road crash on the A258 between Dover and Deal on Wednesday, October 12.

The 17-year-old from Fairview Gardens, Walmer, was a passenger in the back seat of a Ford Fiesta.

More than 1,500 people have become fans of a Facebook page set up in his memory, posting messages of their memories and great times spent with “a loveable, big-hearted boy”.

His mother Emma has been touched by the sympathy shown since his death.

She said: “We have been inundated with cards and have lost count of how many we have received.

“They are still coming in, as well as all the letters, messages and flowers, which have all helped us. It has been unbelievable.

“We would like to thank everyone. I am getting there, but nothing is ever going to make it better.”

He was known for his striking auburn Afro-style hair and charismatic smile.

Josh lived with his parents Emma and Stephen and three brothers Ben, 21, Jake, 16, Reece, aged six and sister Millie, aged eight.

A keen Nottingham Forest supporter, he was a pupil at Warden House Primary before leaving for Walmer Science College.

After taking his GCSEs, he enrolled on a plumbing course at Canterbury College. College spokesman Chris Thomas said: “Josh was a very popular student and will be greatly missed by students and staff.”

He also played football for Betteshanger youth team and cricket for Betteshanger.

His funeral is expected to take place at Barham Crematorium on Thursday, November 3.

Did you know Josh? Leave a tribute below.