Tributes have been paid to a much-loved grandfather who died in hospital after being crushed by his own car.

Mick Brooks had been trying to bump start his red Fiat Doblo near his home, in Bower Street, when the vehicle picked up speed, wedging him between the open door and a stationary Ford Fiesta.

Neighbours and gardeners from a nearby allotment rushed to his aid and tried desperately to help him after the alarm was reportedly raised by a child, but the pensioner suffered serious injuries to his chest, lower arm and stomach.

He was flown to St George’s Hospital in London, where it is understood he was put on life support, and tragically passed away days later.

Following the news of his death, tributes poured in for the retired lorry driver.

Mr Brooks, who was in his 70s and had lived in the street for several decades with wife Bridget, was described by as a “one in a million” and a “fun loving man” by friends.

Former neighbour, Chris Bambury, said: "I loved this man to bits. He was my best friend. We used to live next door to Mick and Bridget. Why didn’t he ask for some help, I would have come over? But he was like that, always helping others and not asking for himself. My old friend I am going to really miss you.”

"I loved this man to bits. He was my best friend... My old friend I am going to really miss you" - Former neighbour Chris Bambury

Friend Bryn Annis added: “If I am half the man Mick was, I will be happy. I am so proud to have known him.”

Mr Brooks previously featured in KentOnline's sister paper the Kent Messenger when he helped shave the head of grandaughter Lucy Brooks, to help raise money towards a new garden for her disabled sister Lauren last summer.

Kent Police’s serious collision investigation unit is appealing for witnesses to the incident, which happened in a track off Bower Street and Cornwallis Road at 2.20pm on Sunday, April 30, to come forward.

A report is being compiled for the coroner, but an inquest date has not yet been set.

If you saw what happened, call the witness appeal line on 01622 798538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk quoting AH/DJ/86/17.