More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
One of the victims of a crash which killed two men and left a third fighting for his life has been named locally as Reece Watson.
The former Swadelands School pupil from Maidstone was travelling in a van when it was in a collision with a lorry on the M26 on Thursday.
His aunt Nikki Casson has launched a GoFundMe appeal to support her sister, Reece's mum, at this tragic time.
Mrs Casson wrote: "This is one of the hardest things I have ever had to write.
"Sadly my handsome kind beautiful funny nephew has been taken from us way to soon.
"To say that we are devastated is a understatement and won't even come close to the pain we are going through.
"I am doing this fund raiser to help my beautiful big sister at this awful time."
Meanwhile friends have been posting their grief on social media.
Matthew Murray, who was at school with Mr Watson, and remained close friends, posted a letter to him, in which he said: "I’ve been so numb and empty for the past 24 hours.
"As soon as I started to type this out mate, I fell apart.
"I miss you so much. Having to tell all of our best mates this horrific news just broke me."
Mr Murray said: "I have been so lucky to have you in my life for nearly 20 years now and to be best friends with you has been an absolute privilege.
"You had so much respect from everyone and as they all say, you do light up a room when you walk in - every single time."
Thanking Mr Watson for always supporting him over the years, through thick and thin, Mr Murray said: "You have - and always will be - my brother."
Mr Watson coached the Under-15s team for Lenham Wanderers Football Club.
The club posted a tribute to the West Ham fan on its Facebook page, saying: "Reece was first and foremost a son, brother and father.
"He was such a kind, caring young man with a lifelong passion for football.
"He coached the Under 15s which included his younger brother, refereed junior matches and had also been helping with the training of our young development squad.
"Reece will be remembered fondly as someone who loved the game, and gave his time and support so enthusiastically to the club.
"It is a contribution that Lenham Wanderers will never forget and it was a privilege to have him in our football family."
We send our most heartfelt condolences to his family at this incredibly difficult time.
You can support the GoFundMe Appeal here .
Anyone with information about the crash should call 01622 798538 quoting reference RY/MD/88/20. Alternatively, email sciu.td@kent.police.uk.
