Tributes have been paid to a 23-year-old who was a "cheeky chappie with an amazing sense of humour".

Sean (also known as Shorn) Petch, 23, from Folkestone, was driving along the Alkham Valley Road when he lost control of his blue Seat Ibiza at about 10.30pm on Sunday.

The former Dover Grammar School for Boys student died after his car plummeted into a tree and caught fire.

Emergency crews including police, paramedics and fire crews were called, but he could not be saved.

It is understood it happened just yards away from Kearsney Abbey gardens.

His family, has since paid tribute to him.

In a statement they said: "We have lost a loving son, brother, grandson and true friend.

“He was a cheeky chappie with an amazing sense of humour.

"A self-confessed wind-up merchant.

"Sean loved playing pranks and pulling people’s legs. He was happy-go-lucky and would go out of his way to help his family and his friends.

“He had lots of friends and was very sociable.

"A handsome young man with the most fantastic beard, Sean considered himself quite the lady’s man.

“He excelled at cooking, just for fun, a definite Masterchef contender. He was especially popular when he decided to make one of his superb cakes!

“Sean faced many hardships over the past few years, but with sheer determination, and making light of situations, managed to overcome them.

"Alongside all of this, he completed his apprenticeship and qualified as a multi-skilled engineer. We are immensely proud of him.

“We are all heartbroken.

"We will miss his company, his sense of humour and that roaring laugh.”

A Facebook tribute page has been set up where friends have been paying tribute to him.

Craig Barnes wrote: "Sean (Shorn) was quite literally the nicest guy I've ever had the pleasure of knowing.

"He always put others first, which was one of the reasons I got on so well with him. He was one of my best friends, and I still feel as if someone is playing a sick joke on us.

"I'm going to miss you so so much buddy. You will always be there in our hearts. My sincerest condolences to his family right now."

Aimee Gibson added: "Shorn was one of the nicest and easy going people in the world, anyone who knew him was blessed.

"Sean loved playing pranks and pulling people’s legs. He was happy-go-lucky and would go out of his way to help his family and his friends" - Sean's family

"I still can't quite process the news and I can't even begin to imagine how hard it is for those closest to him, my heart goes out to you all, I really hope things get easier for you but rest assured Shorn will always be the brightest star in that sky, rest in peace buddy."

Paul Lewis, who taught Sean at Canterbury College, said he would remain in his memory "as one of the brightest and funniest students I have worked with".

Police are now appealing for witnesses to the incident which involved no other vehicles.

Detective Constable Jamie Woodhams said: “Officers from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit would like to speak to anyone who saw the vehicle prior to the collision.

“If you can assist, call 01622 798538 or e-mail sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk quoting incident number 06-1318.”