A YOUNG mother killed when a tree crashed down on to her car was a member of Kent Police's forensic investigation department, it has been revealed.

Claire Bolton, 26, was driving a green Subaru along the main Hastings Road at Bodiam, east Sussex, on Thursday afternoon when the tragedy happened.

Ms Bolton, from Staplehurst, near Maidstone, leaves a partner and baby son.

In a statement Kent Police said: "Claire was an extremely valued and popular member of the forensic department where she worked as a performance analyst and she will be very sadly missed by all her colleagues.

"Every death dealt with by Kent Police is done so with great compassion and sympathy for the family. The death of a much valued employee comes with even greater sadness.

"Prior to working in the forensic investigation department, Claire was a processing and administrative assistant in Ashford.

"All those who knew and worked with Claire are deeply distressed upon hearing the tragic news of her death and our thoughts remain with Claire's family."

At the time of the accident there were gale force winds in the area. A young child in the car was taken to hospital and kept in overnight for observation.

Sussex Police say no other vehicles were involved. They have urged any drivers who may have left the scene before emergency services arrived to come forward with any information.