Tributes have poured in to two men killed in a horror crash in the early hours of New Year’s Day.

Karl Buchan, 23, and Michael Shepherd, 27, both died when a car careered into an historic monument in London Road, Teynham, at 1.20am.

The pair, who were backseat passengers in the Renault Clio, were pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

A man driving and a woman in the front passenger seat were airlifted to hospital in London with serious injuries after firefighters freed them using hydraulic cutting equipment.

The car had been travelling towards Sittingbourne when it crashed outside the Dover Castle pub, flipping onto its roof after colliding with a water pump erected to mark Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee.

The deaths of both Mr Buchan and Mr Shepherd have sparked a wave of tributes on social media.

Aaron McClean wrote on Facebook: “Think it’s safe to say the whole of Faversham will be feeling down today. We lost two really loved lads. Town will not be same without u in it.”

Matt Love posted: “Can’t believe it, two friends gone. Sleep tight Karl Buchan & Michael Shepherd. You both will be sadly missed.”

Mr Shepherd’s dad, also called Michael, wrote on Facebook: “Can’t believe you’re gone son. You never wanted to grow up, now you won’t have to.

“I’ll always love and miss you Michael.”

Former Canterbury College student Mr Buchan was a talented pool player who represented the Cross Keys in Canterbury and the Heron pub in Herne Bay.

Alex Hogben wrote on his Facebook: “Don't even know what to say. Can't explain how great this man was.

“He always knew how to put a smile on somebody's face.”

Chris Hooper said Mr Buchan lit up any room he walked into, adding: “All them late nights playing pool and darts round your house.

“Taught me how to play crib! Never could beat you though aye! Sleep tight my friend.”

Sian Cass posted: “So many memories with all us when we was younger.

“It hurts me to say goodbye to such a lovely person u will be so missed by everyone, friends and family!!

“You always had a smile and new how to make people laugh.”

Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information should call the police's serious collision investigation unit on 01622 798538.