A YOUNG farm hand killed while working with a hay baler has been named.

Alan Ashbee, 22, was found dead at Court Reed Farm in Biddenden, near Ashford, on Thursday, August 4. Police attended the scene along with a crew from Ashford Fire Station.

Friends and family have spoken of their shock and sadness at the tragic death of the popular Bethersden man.

A family member said: “Alan was a loving, generous, hard-working son and brother. He was always willing to help other people without making a fuss. He will be greatly missed by everyone.”

Farmer John Windibank, who knew Mr Ashbee well, said: “We had worked together, on and off, for the last five years. I helped him and he helped me. We were like partners. We knew what the other one was thinking.

“He was liked by everyone. He was a nice guy, dependable and reliable. He was building his own farm enterprise. He loved the cows and was very good with animals.”

Mr Windibank added: “I just can’t say enough about him. He was fantastic. People like him are few and far between. It’s very sad news indeed.”

Another colleague, who asked not to be named, said: “He was a lovely lad. He had lots of aspirations for his own farm. He was keen and a very hard worker.”

Dennis Spragg, owner of Court Reed Farm, said: “We’re absolutely devastated and our sympathies go to his family. It’s something that you don’t expect to happen, especially to such a young lad. It’s heart-breaking.

“I only spoke to him once, but he was a very nice chap and very capable.”

The Health and Safety Executive is investigating the incident.