EMPLOYEES at one of Folkestone's largest firms are mourning the loss of a popular colleague.

Keith Eldridge, 60, a post room messenger at Saga, died suddenly on Monday. He collapsed at the wheel of his car in Romney Avenue, in the Golden Valley, Folkestone, at around 10.30am. His car then collided with a parked car.

His wife was in the vehicle with him. Mr Eldridge was taken to the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford by ambulance, but was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.

Mr Eldridge lived in Darnley Close in the Golden Valley. He had worked for Saga since August 2002.

Lisa Harris, a spokesman for the company, said: "We are very sad to have lost him. He was a very popular member of staff. Because of the nature of his job he knew pretty much everyone. He was a lovely person who was always smiling. Our thoughts are with his family."

Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the crash to contact the investigation team on 01622 600970.