A GRIEF-stricken family have spoken of the loss of their precious teenage son.

Jamie Gooda, 17, died after a tragic road crash on the A2 on Friday night.

Jamie’s brave parents have told of the warmth and love behind his cheeky smile.

His father Mark Gooda said: “Jamie was so loved in this family. In fact, it seems he was loved byeveryone.”

Jamie was killed when his moped and an HGV collided on the A2, Watling Street, Singlewell, on Friday, at 10.20pm.

Ambulance crews attempted to save Jamie, but he died at Darent Valley Hospital of his injuries.

That night his dad Mark, 43, and Jamie’s girlfriend Kennedy had repeatedly tried to call the motorbike enthusiast, but their calls went straight to answer phone.

Mr Gooda said: “There wasn’t a day that would pass when I didn’t check he was okay. Every day I would say ‘please ride carefully’.”

His dad was unaware of the crash until a friend of Jamie’s called at the family’s home in Wilberforce Way, Gravesend, to ask if he was about.

When Mr Gooda said no, the friend told him he thought he had seen Jamie’s crash helmet and scooter at the A2 scene.

His dad went to the spot and when he called his wife, police were at their home breaking the news of the accident.

At 17, Jamie’s infectious personality and love of life meant he was liked wherever he went.

Nicknamed Lil Gooda, the former Meopham School student was never without his trademark Nike Air Max cap.

He had worked at High Cross MOT Ltd, in Highcross Road, Southfleet, for a year and had earned the respect of his colleagues.

Jamie’s dad said: “He had a bright future ahead of him. Everywhere he went people would warm to him. Jamie always had time for people.”

His mum Sharon, 42, said: “Jamie’s life was cars and motorbikes.

“He loved being on them, he loved drawing them and he loved taking photographs of them.”

Mrs Gooda said her son was a typical teenager, always getting into scrapes.

“All Jamie had to do was smile, and whatever the problem was it was done and dusted.”

The family say they have been staggered by the messages of love and support left at the scene and on social networking sites Facebook and Bebo.

Mr Gooda said: “Jamie was so loved in this family. In fact, it seems he was loved by everyone.”

Jamie’s family hopes to plant a tree and lay a plaque near the spot of the accident.

Mr Gooda added: “When his friends get down, they can talk to Jamie by his tree.”

Tomorrow, a week on from the tragedy, friends are expected to make a pilgrimage to the site.

Kent police are appealing for witnesses to the A2 accident.

Anyone who saw the crash is asked to call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01622 798538.

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