A pensioner killed after being hit by a truck was the "perfect man", his grieving partner said today.

Joseph Michael Geoghegan was knocked down last week as he crossed the road in Watling Street, Gillingham.

Today, moving tributes were paid to the popular former Navy serviceman from Rainham by his son Paul and partner Joan Youens.

The incident happened at about 2.10pm on May 12 between the Bowaters roundabout and Will Adams roundabout.

Mr Geoghegan, known as Mick, was taken to Medway Maritime Hospital but died later from his injuries.

Son Paul, 52, said: "Dad was enjoying his life, with a partner who he loved.

"He was an active man and was seeing out his later years by going on cruises and travelling around the world.

"He was due to be going to the Caribbean this week and had another holiday planned for later in the year.

"He loved going away and spending time abroad. He was a keen bowls player and was just enjoying the time he had left and spending it with someone who he cared about.

"I never expected to get a call to say that he had died like this, and it’s a terrible way to lose him.

"It’s a tragedy that he couldn’t go on doing what he was doing and making the most of his later years in life.

"He had a big family and he’s going to be missed by lots of people."

Joan, Mick’s partner of 10 years, said: "I consider myself very lucky to have spent 10 years with such a wonderful and kind man.

"We had a fantastic life together and enjoyed a number of holidays, travelling to the Far East, USA, Caribbean and Europe.

"We had just returned from a holiday to Holland and had other trips planned as travelling is something we both loved.

"We also enjoyed playing bowls and socialising with our many friends.

"Mick was enjoying his retirement having served in the Navy for a number of years and more recently as Chief Security Officer for the Chatham and Sheerness Dockyards.

"He had lived in Kent previously but returned 12 years ago, following the death of his wife.

"I would like to thank the NHS staff who did so much to try and save Mick; their efforts and kindness are really appreciated.

"Thanks too to the police officers who have been so compassionate and thoughtful in dealing with both my and Mick’s family during this difficult time.

"Mick was loved by everyone and was very well thought of by all those who met him. He was extremely funny and to me he was the perfect man."

Kent Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit was called to the scene and is appealing for any witnesses to come forward.

Anyone with information can contact the unit on 01622 798 538.

Did you know Mick? Pay tribute to him in the comment box below.