A much-loved busker was killed in a house fire started by an e-scooter.

Well-known Faversham musician James Ronayne - also known as Punky Jim or Jimmy - has been named locally as the victim of the devastating blaze in Salters Lane in the early hours of Saturday morning.

The 44-year-old had been living at Mill House, a 23-bed house in multiple occupancy (HMO) opposite the entrance of Faversham Town FC.

James’s sister Samantha posted on social media: “The tragic house fire on Salters Lane did result in the loss of my extremely loved brother, James Ronayne.

“Some of you know him as Punky Jim or Jimmy.

“As you can imagine, as a family we are grieving, this is not the kind of news you expect to wake up to.

“His loss has left Faversham speechless. He was such a well-loved person, such an amazing character.

“As a family, we’d love to put the money together to give him the send-off he deserves.”

A fundraiser has been started to help pay for costs.

More than £1,200 has been donated so far, with as many as 60 people contributing.

A former pupil of the Chaucer School in Canterbury, James was well-known for busking all over Kent, though he had hoped to swap performing on the streets for a full-time career in music.

He was inspired by bands such as Pearl Jam and Alice in Chains but had an eclectic taste when it came to what he listened to at home – everything from Bob Dylan to classical tunes.

Many residents have been paying their respects to the popular local character.

Swale borough and Faversham town councillor Hannah Perkin said: “I'm so sorry, Jim was a really sound guy and friend to loads of people in Faversham. Sending thoughts to you and your family.”

Dave Piggott added: “The town ain't gonna be the same without him and I'm really gonna miss our debates.”

Beth Passarelli called Jim “a lovely bloke with a heart of gold”, with Robin Cole saying he was “a true Faversham legend”.

A balloon release in memory of James will take place on Saturday afternoon at Faversham Recreation Ground, with people encouraged to turn up from 3pm onwards, with the family to arrive at 6pm.

Ten fire engines, a command support unit, and a height vehicle were all sent to Salters Lane after the blaze broke out at 18 minutes after midnight Saturday.

Over the weekend, it was confirmed a man in his 40s had died at the scene.

It has since been revealed by the fire service that the “significant” blaze is thought to have been accidental and was “started by an e-scooter”.

Salters Lane remained closed on Monday morning.