A young man who died in an industrial accident has been named locally.

Tragedy struck at Park Farm Close in Folkestone shortly before noon yesterday, prompting an emergency response from ambulance crews, the police and Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

The road was closed while an investigation was started and nearby businesses closed their doors early.

The man has been named as Ashley King, 20, from Folkestone as tributes are paid on social media.

‘Funny’, ‘cheeky’, and ‘kind-hearted’ are just some of the words used to describe Mr King.

Tia Lambert wrote: “He wasn't just a friend he was family.

“The brother I never had to pick me up when I’m down.

“Such a funny, cheeky, caring, big hearted character who didn't deserve what's happened.”

Rebecca Butler added: “(I) literally can't believe what has happened today, only saw and spoke to you two days ago.

“You were so loved and are gonna (sic) be so missed by us all, rest easy Ashley King taken far too young.

“My condolences go out to his family, closest friends and his partner and children. RIP big man.”

The air ambulance landed on school playing fields at the nearby Folkestone Academy to help paramedics from South East Coast Ambulance service.

Police were called at 11.48am after reports of the accident.

Dan Farrant, who runs Farrant Removals next door, said: "It was a really sad incident next door to us, we understand it was a fatal incident today and our thoughts are with the family and all involved.

"The police, ambulances and air ambulance were at the scene very quickly."

A police spokesman said: "Kent Police was called to a reported industrial incident in Park Farm Close, Folkestone, at 11.48am on Thursday 16 November 2017.

"Officers attended and provided support for medical crews and a man in his 20s was pronounced dead at the scene.

"Officers are conducting initial enquiries and the Health and Safety Executive has been made aware."

A spokesman for HSE added: "HSE is aware of this incident and is currently assisting Kent Police with their investigation."