Tributes to Stef Hayles after two men die in crash on Folkestone Road near Dover
Published: 09:06, 14 February 2023
Updated: 17:04, 15 February 2023
Friends of one of two men killed in a horror crash have described him as "a legend".
The pair, who were both in their 30s, tragically died in the collision in Folkestone Road, Dover, in the early hours of Monday morning.
One has been named by friends as Stef Hayles, who lived in Hawkinge, and was on his way to work when the accident happened.
Emergency services descended on Folkestone Road at about 5.10am after a grey BMW 120d and a white Ford transit van collided head-on. Both men killed in the incident were driving the vehicles.
Friends of Mr Hayles say they are stunned to hear of his death, adding their thoughts are with his partner Sharne.
Kev Hutchinson posted on Facebook: "So, so sorry you're gone. You are a legend and always will be."
Chaydon Kemp added: "Top fella, always the best to be taken before the worst. RIP Steffy boy."
Another friend, Craig Bramwell, added: "Absolutely tragic news to hear this morning. On your way to work to earn your crust and provide for your family. My heart goes out to your family. Rest easy up there."
A passenger in the van, a man in his 20s, sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene by paramedics before being taken to the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford.
Resident Gary Walmsley told KentOnline: "My wife was woken up by the noise of the helicopter above.
"The emergency services left the scene at 3pm.
"I saw the van and BMW being taken away on the backs of lorries. The BMW was particularly badly wrecked."
Mr Hayles is thought to have worked for DDL Group, which is based in Sheerness and supplies civil engineering and labour staff.
Police are appealing for witnesses to the crash, or anyone with any useful information, to come forward.
Anyone with information should call the SCIU appeal line on 01622 798538, or email sciu.td@kent.police.uk, quoting reference RY/LB/016/23.
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KentOnline reporter