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Tributes to Hayesbrook school teacher and Charlton coach Stephen Adams of Paddock Wood who died in a car crash on Seven Mile Lane near Offham

The family of a father-of-two who died in a crash in Seven Mile Lane have paid tribute to the popular teacher and football coach.

Charlton Athletic academy coach Stephen Adams was killed when his silver Ford Fiesta collided with a blue Nissan Navara at the Comp Lane junction of the busy route at 6.50am on Sunday.

The 34-year-old from Paddock Wood was a teacher at Hayesbrook School in Tonbridge.

Stephen Adams was a computing and IT teacher at Hayesbrook. Picture: The Hayesbrook School
Stephen Adams was a computing and IT teacher at Hayesbrook. Picture: The Hayesbrook School

In a statement, his family said: "Stephen will be missed forever by his wife Kimberley, his sons Luke and Finley, his mum Debbie, sister Kayleigh, father-in-law Richard, mother-in-law Frances and many family and friends who loved him very much.

"Stephen had an amazing passion for football coaching and was well respected as a teacher. Stephen will remain forever in our hearts and we will love him always."

A spokesman for The Hayesbrook School said: “Everyone at the school is deeply saddened by the death of Mr Stephen Adams, a computer teacher at the school.

“Mr Adams lost his life in a tragic accident over the weekend. Our thoughts, prayers and support are with Stephen’s family.

“Stephen was a dedicated teacher and a fantastic professional who was hugely respected. He cared deeply about students and computing and his love of sport made him a popular figure at Hayesbrook.”

Stephen Adams was tragically killed on Sunday
Stephen Adams was tragically killed on Sunday

A spokesman for Charlton Athletic FC said: "We are extremely saddened to report the death of academy coach Steve Adams.

"Steve joined Charlton in 2012 and coached both the club’s U11 and U12 sides during his three years at the club.

"The club would like to offer their condolences to Steve’s family during this very difficult time."

Academy Manager Steve Avory said: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of a much-valued member of our coaching team.

“He joined us in the 2012/13 season as part of the FA’s Black and Asian Coaches bursary programme and in that time he became a very popular member of staff.

“He will be greatly missed.”

Charlton’s first-team players will wear black armbands in honour of Steve Adams during Tuesday evening’s fixture with Bolton Wanderers at The Valley.

Meanwhile, the club’s academy fixtures will be preceded by a one minute’s silence this weekend.

The road was closed in both directions until late in the afternoon on Sunday while police combed the scene near Offham.

The road was closed until 4.25pm
The road was closed until 4.25pm

The driver of the Navara was taken to Tunbridge Wells hospital with minor injuries to his chest.

Officers from the serious collision investigation unit are appealing for anyone who may have seen the vehicles before the incident or shortly afterwards to come forward.

Witnesses are urged to call the serious collision investigation unit witness appeal line on 01622 798538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk.

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