A teenage rugby player who died in a crash with a digger on the A2 near Dover will be remembered for his "tough tackling and a friendly smile".

Steven Perry, 13, of The Avenue, Gravesend, played for a youth team at the Walmer-based Deal and Betteshanger Rugby Club where he has been remembered in a silent tribute.

The youngster, pictured right, was a passenger in a taxi that crashed with a digger on the London-bound carriageway of the A2 at Shepherdswell early on Friday.

Steven was declared dead at the scene and another passenger, a 15-year-old boy was injured.

The driver of the Skoda Octavia taxi - a 47-year-old man - was arrested on suspicion of causing the boy's death by dangerous driving. He has now been released on police bail until June 26.

Friends spoke fondly of Steven.

John White, who coaches the under-13s team at the rugby club, said: "Steven played for the club for years and was admired and respected by all lucky enough to know him.

"He was a talented rugby player who was determined, even at a young age, to make a career out of the sport.

"his team mates and coaches will miss him greatly but will remember steven fondly..." – john white

"Winning awards most years at the presentation evening is testament to his influence.

"As well as starring for his own age group, Steven would often be asked to play for an older team and would still be one of the best players.

"His team mates and coaches will miss him greatly but will remember Steven fondly, with memories of aggressive attacking, tough tackling and a friendly smile."

His under-13 team mates played the first match in his memory against Ash on Sunday. A minute's silence was observed by the whole club before kick-off.

Mr White added: "The match was played at a fast pace with both sides attacking and defending well, true to the style of Steven's play."

Steven Perry died on the A2 at Sherpherdswell

The driver of the orange Komatsu digger was not injured in the crash, which happened just more than two miles north of the Whitfield roundabout on a single-carriageway section of the A2 at around 12.45am.

Witnesses are urged to phone the Kent Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01622 798538.