An East Peckham van driver seriously injured in a crash near Colts Hill has died.

John Bartlett, 24, was flown to King's College Hospital in London with head injuries after his Ford Transit left the A228 and crashed into a wall just after 8am on Friday.

He died in hospital yesterday.

Tributes have been paid to a "treasured son and our dear friend" and a memorial page has been set up in Mr Bartlett's memory.

Posting on its Facebook page, East Peckham Salvation Army, said: "Sad news has reached us, John Bartlett passed away today.

"The outpouring of love and prayers has touched so many deeply. Our village has come together in love and prayer and respect for this young man.

"Now is the time to let that love flow, a time to support those who loved John. We ask for continued prayer for the family and friends of John."

The Merry Boys pub held an event in Mr Bartlett's memory and raised over £695. In a message to its customers, it said: "The Merry Boys would like to say a massive thank you to all the people that attended one of the most emotional but one of the most amazing turnouts ever.

"John Bartlett was the best of the best."

After the crash the road was shut in both directions and queues stretched back towards Paddock Wood hop farm and Pembury Village.

It had reopened by midday.

Police are appealing for anyone who saw a white Transit carrying a number of ladders on its roof between East Peckham and Colts Hill to get in touch.

Anyone with information is asked to call Kent Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01622 798538, quoting DS/JW/96/17 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk.