Double tragedy as biker and driver die day apart

Two men from neighbouring villages have died within a day of each other in separate crashes.

Father-of-two, Ian Hodgson was killed after he lost control of his Ducati motorbike on the A228 Branbridges Road, around 7.15pm on Sunday.

No other vehicles were involved and tragically the 46-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene, between Paddock Wood and East Peckham.

He leaves wife Tracey and sons, Chris and Stephen.

In a statement they said: “Ian was a loving husband and devoted father. He was a much loved friend to many.”

The road was closed near the Hop Farm for a number of hours for forensic investigations.

The following morning, just after 11.30pm, a driver from East Farleigh had a cardiac arrest at the wheel of his car in Mills Road, next to Sainsbury’s, Aylesford.

The car is reported to have crashed into a nearby lamppost.

The air ambulance landed nearby but paramedics were unable to save the driver, thought to be in his 60s.

Hermitage Lane resident Andy Good said: “I saw the air ambulance land over the road from me and I heard lots of sirens.

“A large white tent had been put up so I couldn’t see what had happened.”

Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of the motorcyclist.

PC Jamie Woodhams, from the serious collision investigation unit, said: “This is a fairly busy stretch of road and I would appeal to anyone who saw what happened or the vehicle in the moments leading up to the collision to contact us with any information.”

Witnesses are asked to call 01622 798538, or email sciu.td@ kent.pnn.police.uk