An 18-year-old who died when the car she was in crashed into a pub has been named locally.

Touching tributes have been paid to Lucy Billingham who was killed when the vehicle left the road and careered into The Old Gate Inn on the A2050 at Nackington, near Canterbury.

Since the collision at 4.20am on Saturday flowers have been left at the scene and tributes have poured in for the former SupaJam College student.

One friend wrote: “Lucy was taken too soon from this world.

“A kind angel, I will always remember you and the good times.”

Lucy's uncle shared his grief, saying: "My lovely niece passed away yesterday in a car crash in Canterbury. She was only 18.

"I haven't had much sleep since this has happened.

"Rest in peace Lucy, we will all miss you."

A family member posted a picture of flowers left at the scene.

“I have gone to place flowers at the Old Gate Inn for my 18-year-old cousin who tragically lost her life yesterday morning,” began the post.

“I cannot begin to say about the life we lost and how this has affected her family and friends.”

Hundreds of well-wishers commented, passing on their sympathies for the family’s loss.

“My deepest condolences to you and the rest of the family. Our prayers are thoughts are with you all,” began one.

“May she rest in eternal peace.”

Emergency services had been called out to the A2050 New Dover Road at Nackington early Saturday morning following reports of a red Ford Fiesta crashing into the Old Gate Inn public house.

The road was closed both ways for several hours on Saturday as officers carried out investigation work following the accident.

Four others in the car were taken to hospital for treatment. Their injuries aren’t believed to be life-threatening.

The driver, a 20-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

A police spokesman said: "Officers from Kent Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) are appealing to anyone who saw what happened, or has relevant dashcam or CCTV footage, to come forward.”

Any drivers with dashcam footage which may assist the investigation can submit it by clicking here.

Anyone with information should call the SCIU appeal line on 01622 798538, or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk, quoting reference RY/LB/132/22.