Tributes have poured in for a "gentle giant" and father-of-two who lost his battle with Covid-19.

Maidstone lorry driver Robbie Gash has been described by his family as a much-loved and well-known member of the community who "had a heart of gold".

Robbie, 41, who lived near Mote Park and grew up in Marden, was rushed into Maidstone Hospital on Christmas Day after becoming ill and showing signs of the virus.

He was discharged a couple of days later before being admitted again after New Year's Day, having taken a turn for the worse, and was put on ventilation for a fortnight.

However, just as he was showing signs of improvement, he caught a secondary infection and died on Saturday morning.

The former Army man, who served in the Royal Logistics Corps for four years, leaves behind his wife of nine years, Kelly Gash, and their two children Harry, six, and Emily, one.

Kelly's brother, Shane Cole, praised his brother-in-law, who he had known for 12 years.

He said: "He was a gentle giant, standing at around 6ft 4in, he towers over most people but wouldn't hurt a fly.

"Being a father himself he's the type of person who would give you his last pound and have no money just so that you would be sorted. He would do anything for anyone."

Shane explained how, after his family, Robbie's nan was his pride and joy and he would visit her every Sunday with a sausage roll and keep her company before she died a few years ago.

"She had dementia, so it was hard for him, but that's just how kind he was," he added.

Robbie was well known in Maidstone for his time as a volunteer at the Urban Blue Bus, helping to keep revellers safe on Saturday nights, and as a doorman at venues including Strawberry Moons.

Shane, who is living in Portsmouth, admitted not being able to see his sister or give her a hug during this horrible time had been heartbreaking.

He added: "Robbie fought hard alongside the wonderful NHS staff to beat Covid, but it just shows how precious life is. He followed the rules and he would want you all to keep yourselves safe too."

Family friend Hayley Cee said: "Robbie has always been a person who wanted to give back to the community and was an extremely kind and generous person with a great sense of humour.

"The family is devastated by their loss as he was the glue which held them together in some ways. He idolised his wife and children and was devoted to them all.

"He was a massive family man and they were the most important things in his life."

A fundraiser has been set up in memory of Robbie and to help Kelly and the children. It has so far raised more than £2,700.

To donate, click here.

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