Tributes paid to cyclists killed in car crash near Gravesend

The families of two cyclists who died in a fatal car crash have described them as "amazing" people.

Steven Anscomb, 60, and Natasha Lewis, 51, died at the scene of the crash near Gravesend, Kent, on Sunday.

Anscomb's wife Fiona and daughters Liberty and Imogen said in a statement: "He will be so very deeply missed by so many and has been robbed of the special times of life."

Lewis's daughter Hermione said: "No words can describe what an amazing, thoughtful, and strong woman she was."

Aaron Turner, 22, of Craylands Square in Swanscombe, has been charged with two counts of causing death by dangerous driving in relation to the fatal crash.

He was further charged with failing to stop at the scene and possession of a class C drug.

A third cyclist involved in the incident was taken to hospital and treated for minor injuries.

Medway Magistrates' Court heard on Thursday the riders had been on a training outing prior to a "very long cycle ride" they were planning overseas.

Anscomb's family said the cycle was "his last ride before his big bike ride to Amsterdam, but sadly he never came home".

They described the 60-year-old as an "amazing, kind, caring, hardworking dad, friend, and the most amazing husband", adding: "We love you forever Steve."

Lewis's daughter Hermione said exercise was one of her mother's "true loves" and she had "so many more years to experience this life".

"I am truly so grateful to have her as my mum," she said, describing her as "one of a kind".

"My heart goes out to everyone that has ever felt this pain," she added. "Mum, I love you so much."

Kent Police has asked anyone who saw the car or cyclists before the crash, at about 07:45 BST near the junction of Sole Street and Round Street, to contact them.

A 21-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and a 19-year-old woman who was detained on suspicion of assisting an offender have been released on police bail.

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