Family and friends have paid tribute to the police officer struck and killed by a passenger train on a foot crossing in Kent.

Det Con Andy Eley, 43, who served in Thanet, was hit by the 9.59am Ramsgate to Faversham service at the Broad Lees foot crossing, near Herne Bay, at around 10.25am Thursday.

Now his family have issued a statement, praising Mr Eley as a "reliable, honest and friendly family man with a good sense of humour who put himself out for others".

Mr Eley lived in the village of Minster with his wife, Linda, and three children Nicholas, Victoria and Harry.

He served 21 years with Kent Police in Thanet, spending most of his career as a detective in the area crime unit.

He was also known as a rural officer on the Isle.

His most recent posting was with the public protection unit based at Margate Police Station, supporting vulnerable members of the community who have become victims of crime.

Area commander for East Kent John Molloy said: "DC Andy Eley was a valued officer, colleague and friend to many who will be remembered for his enthusiasm, dedication and commitment to the force.

"I have been to see his wife Linda and have conveyed our deepest condolences to her and the family.

"She knows our thoughts are with her and that we will continue to support her through the coming months."

Funeral arrangements are now being made.

Mrs Eley has asked that, in place of flowers, donations are made to a trust fund being set up for the couple's children.

These can be made through the funeral directors W.S Cole and Son of Monkton on 01843 821253.

A postmortem was carried out on Friday, and an inquest is due to be opened next week.