A motorcyclist involved in a serious collision has died.

Fred McIlveen was travelling on a black motorcycle which was involved in a crash on Tonbridge Road, Maidstone, around 5.15am on Friday, October 13.

The 60-year-old's motorbike collided with a grey Volkswagen Polo on the carriageway heading out of Maidstone, close to the Vine Medical Centre, at the junction with Vine Mews.

He was taken to Kings College Hospital in London with serious injuries, and he sadly died on Wednesday, November 1.

Witnesses had reported that one of the vehicles may have been travelling the wrong way down this one-way stretch of the A26.

Flowers have been left close to the scene, and his family have issued a tribute to their "beloved Fred".

They said: "With a heavy heart we as a family are heartbroken that we have had to say goodbye to our beloved Fred.

"He was well known for his love of motorbikes and football, often going to watch Maidstone United.

"He will be remembered by everyone that knew him as a cheeky fun-loving man. Fred will be greatly missed.

"He passed away peacefully with his family beside him."

Mr McIlveen worked for many years as a cleaner at Maidstone Hospital. Clive Hedges, a friend and colleague, paid tribute to a man always willing to go the extra mile.

He said: "He was a good man, always happy-go-lucky and he always had a smile on his face at work and out of work. He always wanted to help others.

"He was also helping me with the hospital football team and he did a lot for us, sorting the kits out for every match and everything from water bottles, balls and anything we needed for the team.

"We couldn't have played many games if it wasn't for Fred doing his thing. He loved his football, he was a Maidstone fan and also worked there on match days and once even sorted out a game for the hospital versus a Maidstone team.

"He will be missed by everyone who works at the hospital."

Bill Williams, chief executive at Maidstone United FC, said: “We are very sad to learn of Fred’s passing. He was a regular at the Gallagher Stadium – both as a fan and as part of our match day staff.

"As well as supporting the first team, he also took an active interest in Maidstone United Raiders, the club’s disability teams. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this most difficult time.”

Co-workers hope to organise a charity football match to raise money for Fred's family.

No arrests have been made in relation to this incident, and police inquiries are ongoing.

Investigating officers have now reissued their appeal for information. Anyone who witnessed the crash or saw either vehicle directly beforehand is asked to contact police.

Witnesses are urged to call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01622 798538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk quoting reference MC/GD/228/17.