A motorcyclist who tragically died following a crash with a minibus has been named locally as Joseph 'Gibbo' Gibbons.

The scaffolder, from Liverpool, was pronounced dead following a collision on the A249 near Maidstone yesterday morning.

Police and paramedics rushed to the scene but unfortunately the 33-year-old could not be saved.

Alan Gibbons, Joseph's father, said: "He was probably at the happiest place in his life. He had just fallen in love with a girl, had got a new job and a new car.

"We saw him a couple of weeks before the accident and he was at the happiest point in his life.

"We don’t blame anyone, we don’t feel any anger. We just feel deep, deep sadness.

"We just want to get our boy home now. We’re going to celebrate his life when we get him back and remember only the good things.

"I’m sure that his funeral will be huge because Liverpool takes care of its own. We’re used to tragedy in Liverpool.

"I want to say to your readers to hold your loved ones close because life is fragile."

Mourners have taken to social media to remember the biker, described as a "scaffolding legend", and express their grief.

"I was only working with him a few months back, he was a top bloke. Heart goes out to the family RIP scaff," said one commenter.

"Can't believe this, what nice geezer he was! RIP Joe," posted another.

The accident happened between Detling and Sittingbourne in the northbound carriageway, close to the junction with South Street, shortly before 6.30am.

The road was closed for eight hours.

Police screened off the scene of the crash as recovery got underway.

Officers are now appealing for information to help in their investigation of the crash.

Anyone who saw the collision or either of the vehicles prior to the collision is asked to call Kent Police on 01622 798538, quoting reference DK/NR/127/18.

Officers are particularly interested in speaking to those who may have dash cam footage. Alternatively you can email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk