FRIENDS of a teenage motorcyclist killed in an horrific crash have spoken of their grief.

Howard Barnes, a motorbike mechanic, of Shakespeare Road, Gillingham, died on Tuesday following a crash at the junction of Pump Lane and London Road in Rainham.

Paul Wallis and Stuart Popple had known Howard, 19, a former sea cadet, for more than seven years. Paul said: “We were joined at the hip. He was my best mate. His mum Sally was always there for everyone. She was like a mum to us all, but who will we turn to now?”

Stuart said: “We have all been out for a drink to toast Howie’s life. We are going to really miss him.”

Jeff Scutt, Ist Lt and Boats Officer of the Medway Sea Cadets, spoke fondly of “little Howie” who was in the cadets for four years. He stressed: "He was always up for anything and was a wonderful cadet. You couldn’t wish for a nicer kid. He was always cracking jokes and I don’t think he had an enemy in the world.

Dozens of flowers have been laid at the scene of the accident. Messages read: “Honey, you will always be in my heart” and “You will be so missed, all my love”.

It is believed the motorbike collided with a Ford Mondeo as it turned into Pump Lane. The pillion passenger was taken to Medway Maritime Hospital and treated for leg, arm and back injuries but is making a full recovery.

Anyone with information about the accident is asked to contact PC Julian Barton on 01634 884130.