A grieving family have paid a heartfelt tribute after schoolboy Augustine Carnell was killed in a crash on the A229 on New Year's Day.

In a statement issued today, the 17-year-old's family describes him as a "kind, gentle, happy 17-year-old boy full of fun and humour."

They said he would be "forever in our hearts, our prayers and dreams".

Augustine, of Rochester, died when he was in a crash with a white Skoda Rapid at 3.30am on the Maidstone-bound carriageway of the A229 on Blue Bell Hill.

It is believed the King’s School A-level student was walking home.

His family today said he "always made people feel welcome and at ease – a natural friend.

"He was a keen rugby player, both at King’s and Aylesford Bulls. He was a CCF Air Cadet and Explorer Scout with Shorne Scout Troop."

As a qualified scuba diver, the youngster had completed a coral conservation diving project in 2012. He was said to love animals, the family's dogs, ducks, fish and his bearded dragon.

The statement continued: "His family love him so very much. He is with Jesus now, but he will be with us forever in our hearts, our prayers and dreams."

In a separate tribute, King's School paid tribute to the "charismatic" schoolboy.

The statement said: "Augustine Carnell was a pupil at King’s Rochester from the age of four years old and his death is a very great loss to every member of the school.

"His vivacious personality, his ready smile, his positive presence in class and his many contributions to school life are just some of his qualities that we will all miss."

Augustine played rugby for the first team, had completed his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award and had reached Grade 5 on piano.

"His family love him so very much. He is with Jesus now, but he will be with us forever in our hearts, our prayers and dreams" - Augustine Carnell's family

It said: "Augustine was a charismatic young man with a charming manner and a great sense of fun.

"His ability to relate to everyone he met, whether young or old, meant that he had a wide circle of friends and was liked and respected by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

"Augustine set a true example of how to live life to the full and will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are very much with his family and friends."

Officers from the Kent Police Serious Collision Investigation Unit have launched an investigation into the collision. Nobody has been arrested.

They are appealing for witnesses to come forward. Anybody who saw the collision and has not yet spoken with police is asked to call PC Simon Masterson on 01622 798538.