THE family of a worker killed in a tragic quarry accident have paid tribute to a "loving, caring, gentleman".

Mother Sylvia Wilkin joined her son Paul and daughter Jackie Constant to remember their brother, Mark Wilkin, who died two weeks ago.

The 45-year-old, of Longfield Road, Meopham, was killed after his dumper truck plunged into an icy lake at a quarry in Salt Lane, Cliffe, on Wednesday, December 5.

Initial reports suggested Mr Wilkin was from the Dartford area.

His brother Paul Wilkin, 41, of Evendon Road, Meopham, said: "He was a real family man and a really caring and loving brother.

"He would do anything for you and didn’t question anything.

"There’s no one who would have a bad word to say about him. He’s going to be missed very much."

Mark Wilkin worked as a building labourer and grew up in the family home, where he had lived with his mother for the last 41 years.

Mrs Wilkin, 68, said there would be a huge hole in her life now her son had gone.

She said: "It’s going to be hard because he’s always lived here and been here with me.

"I’m going to have to get used to not doing his washing or getting his dinner ready for him when he comes home in the evening."

Mr Wilkin studied at Meopham Primary School, and Northfleet School for Boys before joining the building trade aged 16.

Mrs Constant, 48, of Ediva Road, Meopham, said: "He worked really hard, anyone who knew him would say that."

Paul Wilkin added: "He was a very hands on and creative person. He was great at carpentry and drawing. He had a lot of talent."

Mark Wilkin also leaves another sister, Tina Walker, 47, from Hornchurch, Essex, five nephews, aged 12 to 25, and one grand nephew, aged seven months.

Mrs Constant added: "It just won’t be the same without him this Christmas."

An inquest into Mr Wilkin’s death has been opened and adjourned while police and the Health and Safety Executive investigate.