The grieving family of a motoryclist who died after crashing on the M26 in Kent have today paid tribute to him.

Darren Rochford's bike is said to have smashed into the central reservation at around 7.25pm on Sunday, June 30.

The 44-year-old suffered severe injuries and was taken to King's College Hospital, where he later died.

Mr Rochford, from Surrey, had been travelling with two other bikers from Margate when the accident happened.

His Honda CBR 600 bike hit the barrier on the Surrey-bound carriageway of the M26.

Mr Rochford's family said: "Darren was a loving partner, father, son and brother and a doting grandfather who will be greatly missed but always remembered by all those he touched during his life.

"Those who knew Darren will know of his love of anything with an engine, particularly his beloved Mark I Escort which he lovingly restored to its former glory.

"Darren's family would like to pass on their thanks for all the kind words and support they have received."

Mr Rochford's family and friends have organised a memorial run to Jet Ski World in Cliftonville, Margate, on August 18.

It will leave the anti-clockwise Clackett Lane Services at 7.30am.

His funeral will be held at 4.40pm on Friday, July 19 at North East Surrey Crematorium, Lower Morden Lane, SM4 4NU.