THE motorbike rider killed in Monday's Dartford Tunnel crash has been named.

He was well-known and much loved rugby player Keith Ashburn, who has been described by former colleagues at Swanley Rugby Club as a 'true gent'.

And his father, Derek Ashburn turned to social media to pay his respects to his son and said: "I lost my best friend, my life and my son.

"A father could never be prouder than I am. Wow it hurts you're gone."

Swanley Rugby Club issued this statement: "Our thoughts are with his family, friends and anyone who were luckily enough to have known him.

"He played for Swanley RFC in the first two seasons of the club and played a big part in helping the team achieve back to back promotions. He was a big character on and off the pitch."

And many other rugby clubs in north Kent have echoed those comments in social media posts.

The crash, which happened when Mr Ashburn was in collision with a lorry in the east tunnel at around 9.15am on Monday (4 October) is being investigated by Kent police - who closed the tunnel for much of Monday to carry out a thorough forensic investigation.

Police continue to investigate the incident and are asking witnesses to get in contact.

A spokesperson said: "Anyone with information is asked to call 01622 798538 quoting reference HW/MW/109/21. Alternatively, email [email protected]."