A PAINTER and decorator who survived a 150ft plunge after the van he was driving went over a cliff at Capel, near Folkestone, was today recovering in hospital.

Kevin Hickmott, 42, of Quarry Walk, Seabrook, near Hythe, was taken to the William Harvey Hospital at Ashford on Wednesday following the incident. He suffered head, neck and back injuries.

Mr Hickmott's condition this afternoon was described as "comfortable".

His works van sped off the cliff opposite the Lighthouse pub and restaurant in Old Dover Road. Mr Hickmott is separated from his wife who lives at Clarence Road, Capel.