A grieving family has paid tribute to their “soul mate, brother, son and beautiful friend”.

Motorcyclist Ashley Clark, 32, was killed after the green Kawasaki bike he was riding was involved in a collision with a silver Vauxhall Vectra on Cuxton Road on Saturday.

Neighbours tried desperately to save him, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

His family and friends have released a tribute, in the form of a letter to Ashley.

Mother, Heather Clark and brother Elliott wrote: "Dear Ashley, you are my son, my best friend, my rock, so caring, always truthful and hardworking. You still found the time to pursue your dreams and I was so proud to call you my son.

"When you became a kickboxing champion at an early age you found a new passion to add to the motorbikes you loved.

"You are larger than life itself, such a character, and shared your passion with others, founding a club you named Flames to teach children and adults how to follow their dreams in the art of kickboxing.

"You helped them to learn discipline and respect for themselves and others, all this in your spare time. You have always been there for your family and friends, so full of jokes and cheeky fun, a shoulder to cry on and someone to turn to in time of need, whatever the problem.

"I remember your first motorbike, which you got at 17. You loved getting out there on the open road with your friends or alone. Your love of motorbikes became a way of life; each new bike was given the kind of care and attention you gave to your family and friends.

"Now you have been taken from us in a tragic accident that has left a void we will never fill. Ashley, you will always be loved, so missed by everyone who knew you and forever in our thoughts.’

Sister Louise added: ‘We miss you with all our heart and we love you so much. You have been taken so quickly at such a young age, your love and knowledge of bikes I respected, it’s just so sad that your passion took you from me.

"Ashley was a soul mate, brother, son and beautiful friend to all xxx."

Kent Police has appealed for witnesses to contact the serious collision investigation unit on 01622 798538.