Heartbroken friends have paid tribute to a young motorcyclist killed in a crash.

Ismael Brittain, 19, died after his bike collided with a black Ford Focus at the junction with Heron Way in Princes Avenue in Chatham just after 5pm yesterday.

Mr Brittain, who was from Chatham, was pronounced dead at the scene.

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A 22-year-old Chatham man and a 30-year-old man from Rochester were later arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop after an incident.

The 22-year-old is still in custody while the 30-year-old has been bailed until January 23.

Tributes have been paid to Mr Brittain on KentOnline’s Facebook page.

Courtney Jane wrote: “RIP Ismael, can’t believe I was with you only a week ago, fly high man.”

Nicole McCourt said: “Ismael man, our hearts are broken. You impacted our lives in ways none of us can describe. Fly high boyo.”

It has been a grim start to the new year on the county’s roads.

Police had to deal with another fatality in Chatham just hours into New Year's Day, when a man in his 50s was struck by a Renault Clio as he crossed Luton Road.

Hours earlier, two men died when their car hit a tree in Marden.

Officers are appealing for help. Anyone with information about the Luton Road death, is asked the call the witness appeal line on 01622 798538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk, quoting reference DJ/001/18.

Officers investigating the Princes Avenue crash are asking anyone who saw either vehicle or has information or dashcam footage to call 01622 798538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk quoting reference DB/MS/002/18.