A woman who was killed on the M2 at the weekend has been described as a "beautiful person" by her friends.

Flight attendant Heidie Lee Locke, from Broadstairs, died after a collision on the London-bound carriageway between Faversham and Sittingbourne.

Miss Locke, who was in her 50s, was driving a red Nissan Qashqai when it collided with a red Mercedes-Benz C 200 AMG at around 6am.

A 40-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and drink-driving.

He was later released on bail until February 19.

Now Miss Locke's colleague, Teresa Delafons, has paid tribute to her "lovely and caring" friend who was commuting from Broadstairs to Heathrow.

She said: "She was a beautiful person whose life was cut way too short. Heidi is a member of the United airlines crew based out of London.

"She was always up for a laugh and kept us all entertained on our flights across to the USA.

She was a lovely, caring person. She will be missed by all who knew her, especially all of us at United as well as Pan Am where she started her career."

A United Airlines spokesman said: "The United Airlines family is saddened to learn about Heidie’s passing. We have offered our deepest condolences to the family and continue to stay in touch with them during this difficult time."

The London-bound carriageway was shut for 10 hours while police carried out their investigation.

Miss Locke's next of kin, her brother in America, has reportedly been informed about the incident.

Officers are keen to talk to the driver of a light-coloured van who may have seen the Mercedes pass them prior to the collision. They believe the motorist may have important information which can assist their investigation.

Officers from Kent Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) would like to hear from anyone who saw what happened, or who has relevant dashcam or CCTV footage.

Drivers should call the SCIU appeal line on 01622 798538, or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk, quoting reference AH/SC/131/22.