The family of a 22-year-old cross-Channel ferry steward killed in a car crash have paid tribute to a “popular and loving son”.

Karl Butler, of Surrenden Road, Cheriton, died when his Peugeot 206 hit a wall in Southsea, Portsmouth, early on Friday.

He was a passenger in the car. The 19-year-old female driver has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and bailed until early next year.

Mr Butler lived with his mother, Mandy Williams, and step-father Sean.
“I did not realise how much everyone loved him and how
popular he was,” said Mrs Williams.

“Karl was mad on world wrestling and the music that goes with it.

“He was a quiet and loving person who did not do drugs and only drank socially. He had lots of friends but was quite private.”

Mr Butler went to St Eanswythe’s Primary School then the Channel School, now the Folkestone Academy.

He went to South Kent College for three years to do business studies and marketing, getting a part-time job at the One Stop Shop in Cheriton where he was promoted to shift manager.

After finishing college he worked at Saga Insurance for nine months, then got a job in July, 2007, through an agency as a steward with P&O Ferries on the Pride of Calais, eventually being taken on permanently.

Mr Butler was a fan of Arsenal and his family plan to put up a plaque in his memory at the club’s Emirates stadium.

He had a brother, Mark, 32, two half-sisters, Cheryl and Becky, and three step-brothers and sisters, Craig, Clare and Wayne. He also had a nephew, Ryan.

His funeral is at Hawkinge chapel of rest and cemetery on Tuesday, November 17 at 11.45am.

Flowers and donations to W.J. Farrier, 37 Bouverie Road West, Folkestone, phone 01303 245500.