The family of a man allegedly killed with a single punch outside a Maidstone restaurant has paid tribute to a "huge character with an even bigger heart".

Father-of-three Wayne Chester, 50, died outside McDonald's in Week Street on September 29.

On Friday, a 16-year-old boy from the County Town appeared at Maidstone Crown Court to deny committing murder.

In a moving tribute, his siblings Naomi, Tracey, Jason and Stephen have now described the pain caused by his loss.

In a statement released today, they said: "Wayne was a huge character with an even bigger heart. We haven't only lost a brother we’ve lost our best friend and have a void in our hearts which can never be filled.

"Wayne was a true gentleman - kind, caring, funny, generous to a fault, and loved by everyone one who was lucky enough to have had him in their lives. Not a day goes by that we don’t hear from someone what a great guy he was.

"There will be a spare chair at our table this Christmas which will can never be filled - He was our very own Mr Brightside and we all love and miss him deeply" - Wayne Chester's family

"Wayne knew so many people in Maidstone and had a huge network of friends. Everyone we speak with either who knew him personally or knew of someone that knew him.

"That was Wayne - a very sociable and likeable person and always made an impact on everyone he came across. He never had a bad word to say about anyone and saw the good in everyone and every situation.

"Connor, Janie and Millie-Rose, Wayne's children were his pride and joy and anyone that knew Wayne would know he called them his "Mini Me's". They have lost such an amazing Dad and he will never get to share the joy of walking his girls down the aisle or being a Grandad. Wayne was such a big part of their lives that can never be replaced.

"There will be a spare chair at our table this Christmas which will can never be filled - He was our very own Mr Brightside and we all love and miss him deeply. Never again will we hear the words..... "How much do you Love me???? We love you this much!!!!!!"

The family will be holding a private memorial ceremony on Friday.

Wayne Chester died after suffering a head injury during an altercation in Maidstone town centre.

Police and paramedics were called to outside McDonald’s at 10.30pm following reports of a disturbance.

Mr Chester suffered a head injury. He was taken to a London hospital and put into an induced coma, but later died.

The boy, from Maidstone, is due to stand trial on April 9 next year.