Lanterns will be released from Whitstable beach in memory of a talented chef tragically killed when his bicycle was struck by a van.

Popular Dave Thorman, 35, died at the scene of the crash in Canterbury Road last month.

His family has now arranged for the floating lanterns to be released following a memorial service at the Riverside Church on the Thanet Way next week.

The service, to be held from 12.15pm to 1.15pm on Friday, April 21, will follow a private family committal service at 11am at All Saints in Church Street.

There will then be a wake at the Crescent Turner Hotel in Wraik Hill at 1.45pm. All friends and colleagues are welcome to attend the memorial and wake.

The lanterns, which will be available during the wake for mourners to write their own messages to Dave on, will be released from the beach at sundown at about 7.30pm.

Funeral directors Woollard and Kent in Tankerton Road will open their chapel of rest for Dave on Wednesday.

All who knew him are welcome to pay their last respects. It will be open from 9am to 5pm.

Family flowers only. Charity details are yet to be confirmed but information will be available at the chapel of rest on Wednesday, April 19.