The wife of a man who died in a crash in Rainham has paid tribute to her ‘lovely and talented’ husband.

Andrew King, who everyone knew as Mobi, died when his motorcycle colliided with a Toyota Corolla in Berengrave Lane, Rainham, at around 9am on Tuesday.

The 46-year-old’s wife, Tasja, said: "Mobi was a really lovely and talented man, husband and father who will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.

"He was especially proud of his sons, William, seven, and Mitchell, three.

"I'd like to thank everybody at the scene who helped him and there is great comfort in the incredible support we have had from the many friends and well-wishers."

Witnesses have described how they desperately tried to help when Mr King's bike caught alight seconds after the crash. People living in the street ran with hosepipes to put out the flames.

Dozens of floral tributes have been placed at the scene of the crash and outside Kingswood Tattoo Studio, which Mr King had run since 2010 after working as a tattoo artist in Malaga and Folkestone.

A card left read: “Always here, never forgotten. Taken so cruelly. You will be missed so much.” Another read: “Forever in out thoughts. Ride free.”

Dozens of messages have been left on the Kingswood Tattoo Studio Facebook page.

His colleague Wendy Ruddle wrote: “I am so shocked and sad to hear that my great boss and lovely friend Mobi was killed yesterday. My heart goes out to Tasja his wife, their beautiful boys and all his family and friends. Mobi was a one in a million guy.”

Ben Griffiths wrote: “Such a terrible loss of a good man, I will never forget your kind words.”

Mark Graham wrote: “Mobi was one of the most genuine, funny, down to earth guys I’ve met. May you rest in peace dude. You were a legend.”

Part of Berengrave Lane, from the junction with Lower Rainham Road to Chalky Bank Road, was closed until 4.30pm.

Two fire engines arrived moments after the crash, along with several police cars and paramedics.

Kent Police has issued an appeal for witnesses to the collision to come forward.

• Anyone who witnessed the incident and has not spoken to Kent Police is asked to contact the Serious Collision Unit on 01622 798538.