Family pays tribute to son

Kent Police have been asked to issue the following statement on behalf of the family of
Daniel Hughes who died in a road traffic collision on Tuesday 7 February.

Daniel’s parents Mike and Anna and his sister Jenny said:

“Dan was an adored son and brother, and his death in such tragic circumstances, weeks before his 18th birthday, has left both his immediate and extended family totally devastated.

Dan was a kind, charming and loving young man with a fantastic sense of humour.

It gives us some comfort that at the time of his death he was incredibly happy in every aspect of his life and was excited about the future.

We would like to offer our sincere sympathies to his girlfriend Alice and his many loyal friends who share our terrible grief.

Whilst we would like to thank the many people who have offered support and condolences, we would ask that we be given some time to come to terms with this appalling tragedy.”

For details of the funeral arrangements contact E R Hickmott & Son, Funeral Directors.

The family have asked that we repeat their earlier request that no media contact them.

Road traffic incident - Cowden, nr Edenbridge

Police were called at 10.35am today Tuesday 7 February about a road traffic incident on the B2026 Hartfield Road, Cowden near Edenbridge (between Stick Hill and Cowden crossroads).

A blue Fiat Punto and a Metro service bus were in collision.  As a result of the incident the male driver of the Punto suffered fatal injuries.  There were a further 5 casualties who were the driver and passengers from the bus.  One woman was taken by air ambulance to hospital in Maidstone with serious but not life threatening injuries.  The other injured people were taken by road ambulance to Kent and Sussex Hospital, Tunbridge Wells.

No further details of the deceased are being released at this point until his family have been informed.

The road was closed at the junction with Bloomers Hill and at the junction with Spode Lane while emergency services including Kent Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit attended the incident.

The road was re-opened just after 4.00pm.

Police would like to hear from witnesses to the incident or anyone who saw the vehicles in the area at the time of the collision.  Anyone with information is asked to call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit’s witness line on 01622 798537.