The family of a West Malling pick-up truck driver who was killed in a crash have paid tribute to a hard-working and loving man.

Stanley Draper, 54, died on Cold Arbor Road after his pick-up truck collided head-on with a BMW travelling on the wrong side of the road on May 31 last year.

The car was driven by Dennis Barker, 57, from Orpington, who was overtaking traffic when an advisory 20mph speed limit was in force because of loose chippings.

Barker, of Perry Hall Road, was sentenced to three years in jail and also banned from driving for four years following a trial at Maidstone Crown Court on June 17.

In a statement the family of Mr Draper said: “Stanley was a hard-working and loving husband, dad, granddad and father-in-law.

“He spent time with his family, playing with the grandchildren, and he had a good group of friends that he enjoyed spending time with.

“He was a very caring person. No matter what the problem, he was there. He always made you feel safe and loved.

“His youngest son, Stanley Thomas Jr, loved his dad very much and is trying to do his best to make his dad proud by studying hard at school and achieving high standards. We all love him and miss him very much.

“He was a very caring person. No matter what the problem, he was there. He always made you feel safe and loved" - family statement

“We would, as a family, also like to thank Kent Police for their assistance and continued support throughout the investigation.”

Mr Draper, who was not wearing a seat belt, died from head, abdominal and leg injuries before the emergency services arrived.

Barker was fourth in a line of cars driving slowly on the single carriageway because the road had been resurfaced earlier that day.

A Saab car that was third in line pulled out and sped past. Barker then followed.
After pulling onto the correct side of the road Barker’s car fishtailed off course with Mr Draper approaching in the opposite direction.

PC Malins, who investigated the crash, said: “We will never know if a seat belt would have saved Mr Draper’s life but in light of this incident I urge all drivers to remember to buckle up on every trip to help prevent tragedies such as this.”