A woman who died after being hit by a lorry has been described as a "kind-hearted" teaching assistant.

The accident happened on the London-bound carriageway of the A2 near Dartford Heath at around 2.45am on November 12.

Chantel Scannell, 42, from Hornchurch, Essex, died at the scene, an inquest heard on Thursday morning.

The mother-of-two was a teaching assistant at Langton Infant School and has been described as a "down to earth and caring person".

It is understood that Miss Scannell, who was born in Stepney, London, had been travelling in a grey BMW which had stopped on the opposite carriageway.

She was declared dead at the scene and her family was informed.

Coroner Alan Blunsdon explained Miss Scannell's cause of death was given as multiple injuries from a road traffic accident.

Following her death, a fundraiser to raise money for her family has generated more than £10,000 in donations.

Friend and organiser Debbie Leslie said: "Chantel was a bright, selfless, genuine, kind-hearted, down to earth, caring person.

"She enjoyed life and was always determined to live it to the full with a big smile on her face.

"Chantel leaves behind her two beautiful children Mckenzie and Lacie. Chantel loved them both, they were her world and she always spoke of them with pride and joy.

"She adored them both, her life revolved around providing them with the best upbringing she could give them, and both are a credit to her.

"Their achievements filled her with love and admiration and they were both her biggest reason for living.

"Losing Chantel has left a massive void in all of those that knew her. She loved and spoke fondly of all the kids that she worked with at school, she was very passionate about her job and forever helpful in all areas of her life."

Langton Infant School said it was "deeply saddened" by Ms Scannell's passing.

A spokesman said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with her family.

"Miss Scannell was a very special person and will be forever in our hearts.

"Words just cannot say enough, but I hope this may bring us all some comfort during this time of sadness.

"Special people should never be forgotten."

The school revealed it is liasing with staff, children and Miss Scannell's family on how it will be celebrating her.

The inquest into Miss Scannell's death was adjourned to be heard in full on April 5 at County Hall.

You can donate to the fundraiser here.

It was set up to help her two children.