The mother of a "caring, loving and funny" motorcyclist killed in a crash has paid tribute to her son who was just months away from becoming a father.

Brett Appleyard, 24, from Ramsgate, died on Friday - just hours after going to his baby's scan with pregnant partner Lottie.

Tragedy struck when his bike collided with a car at the junction of Conyngham Close at around 8.25pm. He died at the scene.

In a touching statement issued today, his mum Linda said: "Brett will be terribly missed by everyone who knew him.

"He will always be my beautiful boy and the bestest big brother ever to his sister Casey. To his partner Lottie, who is mum to his unborn child, he was and still is her heart and her world.

"Brett was so very caring, loving and funny. He was pure energy. He loved to laugh and make others laugh too. He loved his family and friends very much and anything with an engine. He also loved fishing.

"He was so excited that he was becoming a dad in February and loved his baby so much that he was fit to burst. I’m so happy that he had been with Lottie for the scan that day, as he was beside himself with happiness.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the police and the paramedics who were there that awful night. They were all totally amazing and we are so grateful to them for trying so very hard and for being there for us."

The police's serious collision investigation unit is continuing to appeal for anyone who has not yet spoken to officers to come forward.

Anyone who may have also seen a black Ford Mondeo or a black and white Yamaha motorcycle in the moments leading up to the collision, is asked to call the witness appeal line on 01622 798538 quoting reference DK/SM/222/17 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk

A 65-year-old woman from Ramsgate was arrested in connection with the crash and later released while the investigation continues.