The family of a motorcylist who died in a road crash have paid an emotional tribute to him.

Father of one Paul Vincent was declared dead at the scene of the accident in Deanwood Drive, Rainham, on Tuesday morning.

His family said yesterday: “Paul was a wonderful dad and husband, we will miss him dearly. He will be missed by all of his family and many friends too.

“I am sure it will take some time for us all to come to terms with.’

Firefighters, paramedics and police were called to Deanwood Drive at 10.45am on Tuesday where they tried to free Mr Vincent, who was trapped under a silver Ford Focus close to the junction with Lonsdale Drive.

Mr Vincent was in his early 40s.

Flowers have been placed near to where the tragedy unfolded.

A message attached to one of the bunch of flowers read: “Sleep well Paul. A wonderful neighbour and friend. You will be greatly missed.”

Another message left at the scene simply says: “R.I.P”

Traffic was diverted away from the scene of the accident after police closed Deanwood Drive from its junction with Long Catlis Road as well as the top half of Lonsdale Drive.

Investigators were brought in to examine the area and the road was eventually re-opened to traffic sometime after 2pm.

Investigating officer PC Lorraine Silvester said: ‘We are continuing inquiries to establish the cause of this tragic incident.

“We would like anyone who witnessed the accident to contact PC Ian Malcolm at the Kent Police Serious Collision Unit on 01622 798538.”