The grieving parents of a schoolboy killed in a crash today paid tribute to their "generous, kind and loving" son.

Tragic teenager Tom Brenchley, of Hernhill near Faversham, died last Wednesday following the incident on the A299 Thanet Way.

His Yamaha moped was involved in a smash with a grey Volvo near Dargate the day before.

Today, Tom's devastated parents Dave and Jackie - and his 18-year-old brother Chris - spoke of their loss.

They revealed how Tom was an accomplished sportsman and about to start a carpentry apprenticeship.

Kent Police Sergeant Dave said: "Everyone who knew Tom will remember him as a generous, kind and loving boy who was truly loyal to his friends.

"He had an infectious smile that lightened every room he entered.

"We feel so privileged to have known such a wonderful person and the world is a poorer place without him."

The former Archbishop's School in Canterbury pupil was awaiting his GCSE results after sitting exams earlier this summer.

He was also a keen footballer who played for Whitstable Colts, golfer and cricketer for Whitstable Town.

Jackie, who also works for Kent Police, said: "Tom was born in a rush - just seven minutes after we got to hospital and he seems to have been on the go ever since.

"He lived life to the full and had the wonderful gift of being able to make other people smile."

Dave added: "We would like to thank all of those who have contacted us and sent cards - their thoughts mean so much to us and it has helped to know how popular Tom was and that he was loved by so many people."

Tom died at Kings College Hospital in London where he had been taken after receiving serious head injuries in last week's crash.

Tom's funeral will be held at St Michael's Church in Hernhill on August 9 at 1pm.

Did you know Tom? Pay tribute to him in the comment box below.