"A kindhearted soul who loved animals and lived his life to the full" are some of the moving words used to describe Shaun Richards after his tragic death.

The 24-year-old was driving a black Peugeot 306 when it crashed into a telegraph pole at around 3.40am on Saturday.

Two of his friends were taken to hospital for treatment, but Mr Richards could not be saved.

In a statement released today, his family said: "Shaun Arthur Richards was a hard grafter. He took pride in his work and gained great satisfaction out of sculpting the best looking hedges in Kent.

"As a friend you could not have wished for any better and as a brother and son he took on the responsibility when, like Shaun, his father passed away far too soon.

"He loved animals and took great satisfaction in spending hours walking his dog in the countryside and telling stories about his pet fish.

"He was a kind hearted soul who lived life to the full and shall be missed and remembered fondly by all that he touched."

Mr Richards' friends, one aged 25 and from Hildenborough, and the other aged 24 and from Tonbridge, were taken to a London hospital.

Officers are keen to speak with anyone who saw the crash, or who may have seen the black Peugeot 306 he was travelling in moments before the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to call the witness appeal line on 01622 798538 quoting reference 24-0193.