A man has been charged with the murder of a former firefighter found dead from gunshot wounds in Kent on Friday afternoon.

Steve Langley, who ran the nearby Bax Farm fisheries lake, was found badly wounded in Lower Road, Tonge.

Police were called at 2.45pm and the former firefighter was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Simon Olsen, 54, of no fixed address, has been charged with his murder.

The police helicopter and armed officers were deployed following the incident.

Paying tribute to Mr Langley, former colleague Jim Green, of Rock Road, Sittingbourne, said: "It is with great sadness to hear of the death of Steve, especially in such horrific circumstances.

"He was a great colleague and someone who I am glad to have called a true friend. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him."

Detective Inspector Gavin Moss, of the Serious Crime Directorate said: "We are continuing to investigate the circumstances that have led to this tragic death.

"Mr Langley was a much loved father and husband and was also a well known member of his local community."

The victim's wife, Lucia Langley, paid tribute today to her husband.

Mrs Langley said: 'He was a gentle giant with a heart of gold. He loved his family who always came first and he would do anything for anybody.'

Mr Langley worked for Kent Fire & Rescue Service from 1974 until 1996 and was a pupil at Upbury Manor School, now Brompton Academy, in Gillingham.