THE parents and sister of Daniel Hughes, a 17-year-old schoolboy killed when his car was in collision with a bus, have described him as "a charming and loving young man".

Daniel, who came from Brenchley and was a pupil at Skinners School, Tunbridge Wells, died when his blue Fiat Punto and a Metro service bus were in collision on Tuesday morning.

The tragedy happened on the B2026 Hartfield Road in the village of Cowden, near Edenbridge.

In a statement issued through Kent Police, Daniel's father and mother, Mike and Anna Hughes, and his sister, Jenny, said: "“Dan was an adored son and brother.

"His death, in such tragic circumstances, weeks before his 18th birthday, has left both his immediate and extended family totally devastated.

"It gives us some comfort that at the time of his death he was incredibly happy in every aspect of his life and was excited about the future.

"We would like to offer our sincere sympathies to his girlfriend, Alice, and his many loyal friends who share our terrible grief.

"Dan was a kind, charming and loving young man with a fantastic sense of humour. Whilst we would like to thank the many people who have offered support and condolences, we would ask that we be given some time to come to terms with this appalling tragedy.”

The driver of the bus and four other people were injured in the collision. One woman was taken by Kent air ambulance to Maidstone Hospital with serious but not life-threatening injuries.

The other injured people were taken by road ambulance to the Kent and Sussex Hospital at Tunbridge Wells.

Police would like to hear from witnesses to the incident or anyone who saw the vehicles in the area at the time of the collision.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit’s witness line on 01622 798537.

* For details of the funeral arrangements contact E R Hickmott & Son, funeral directors.