A pair of friends and workmates died in the same car crash, an inquest opening has heard.

Alfie Green, 20, of Hectorage Road, Tonbridge, and Jake Green, 20, of Hunt Road, Tonbridge, were both declared dead at the scene of the accident on the A20 at Farningham on July 31.

Both men had been working as labourers on a site in London.

Coroner Alan Blunsdon read evidence that they had been travelling south along the A20 in a Ford Escort being driven by Jake, when he lost control and crossed the carriageway.

He may have collided first with a central island before being struck by an oncoming Ford Panel van.

The impact was on the passenger side, and Alfie Green died from traumatic brain injuries. Jake Green died from catastrophic injuries to his chest.

Mr Blunsdon adjourned the hearing for full police reports to be prepared.

It will be held on March 23 next year, either at Sessions House or at Oakwood House, in Maidstone.

Earlier, friends had left floral tributes at the scene of the crash, with one card reading: “This world is so cruel.”

GoFundMe pages have been set up to help the victims’ families with funeral costs. Donations can be made here and here.

Nearly £8,000 has been raised so far.

Alfie Green’s twin sister Claudia Green said: “Alfie was the most beautiful, amazing, respectful, loving, kind-hearted king ever to walk this life.

“My brother had the most beautiful smile, and such a funny laugh.

“He was my best friend, my twin, my everything and my brother got taken from us because of this cruel sick world we live in.

“My brother was only 20 and was just starting his life. He was the light in our lives and now all there is, is just darkness.

“Alf was our rock. He made us smile and laugh every single day!

“We are all so broken without him our hearts will never heal again! My brother didn’t deserve this. We will always be together. We all love you forever.”

Ashley Green wrote a few words about his “handsome, young and cheeky” brother Jake.

He wrote: “Our boy Jake got taken well too soon. He deserves the best send-off we can give him. RIP lil bro and Alfie Green. Sleep tight boys, fly high.”

Police are continuing to carry out inquiries and are also urging witnesses and anyone with relevant CCTV or dashcam footage to contact them.

CCTV and dashcam footage can be submitted via the force’s public portal here.

If you have information which can assist the investigation, call the SCIU appeals line on 01622 798538, quoting reference HW/SC/082/23. You can also email Sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk.