A woman has paid tribute to her partner with a 'heart of gold' after he was killed in a tragic cycling accident.

Emma Hankinson has told of the heartbreak of starting the new year alone, instead of with her much-loved partner Leon Edwards.

As she prepares for the funeral later this week, the 34-year-old said her world was shattered three weeks ago when he was killed in a road accident.

Mr Edwards, 43, was cycling along Gravesend Road, Shorne, on Thursday, December 12, when he was hit by a silver Citroen Picasso.

He died from his injuries at the scene, despite the efforts of medics to save his life.

Ms Hankinson, from Chatham, said: “We were going to spend Christmas together and do something on New Year’s Eve, but I couldn’t do anything. I didn’t feel like it. It’s not the same on my own,”

She said Mr Edwards, well-known as a DJ in pubs in Gillingham and Rainham, was only riding a bicycle at the time because his motorbike had broken down.

“I was devastated when I found out,” she said. “The police came round and told me. I broke down.

“He was the love of my life.”

Mr Edwards, of Bryant Street, Chatham, also worked as a chef.

Dozens of people paid tribute to him following his death. He was described as having a “heart of gold” and being a “happy go lucky character”.

Ms Hankinson added: “He was so kind and caring. He would always help anyone out.”

She added: “He was popular. He’d talk to anyone and he’d always do things for other people. He made me laugh even when I was annoyed. He always made me smile too.

“He loved his music and having a laugh. He always said life was too short so make the most of it. I haven’t been able to stop thinking about him since.”

A funeral service for Mr Edwards is due to take place in Sittingbourne on Friday.

Police issued an appeal for witnesses. Anyone who saw what happened is asked to phone officers on 01622 798538.

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