THE family of a teenage driver who was killed when his car crashed into a fence and a tree have paid tribute to him.

Christopher Hyland, 18, known as Kris, was described as a “happy, loving, hard-working young man” by parents Vanessa and Clive, and brothers Matt and Luke, who live in Alkham, near Dover.

Christopher died after the blue Renault Clio he was driving crashed on the Alkham Valley Road on Wednesday last week. He died at the scene.

Floral tributes by the roadside mark the scene of the crash, and cards expressing sorrow for his family have been fastened to barriers by friends. A Burberry-style baseball cap has also been added.

Christopher, a former pupil of Temple Ewell primary and St Edmund’s Catholic schools, had just begun an apprenticeship to be a carpenter and cabinet maker.

“Working with wood was something he not only loved, but was good at,” said his family in their tribute. He loved the outdoor life, whether fishing, gardening or camping and was a big fan of Ray Mears (star of the Bushcraft survival television series).”

They said Christopher loved his family, friends, his dog Daisy and his home.

“A home boy at heart, Christopher loved his house and his village, but always wanted to explore and learn new things,” stressed the the family statement. “He made lots of friends of all ages, quietly and gently leaving an impression on whoever he met.

“People will remember him for his humour and cheeky smile, which had a way of making everyone around him happy.”

Chris Atkin, head teacher of St Edmund’s School, taught Christopher maths for two years. Younger brother Luke is a Year 10 student at the school where he gained 10 GCSEs in 2005.

“It’s very sad,” said Mr Atkin. “My first memory of Kris was that, as a youngster, he was involved with Dover Rugby Club. He played for the rugby team until he was about 13 or 14.

“He was a lovely lad. He was always very cheerful, smart, polite and very friendly.”

In 2005, Christopher and his brothers voluntarily replaced a public bench by the corner of Valley Road and Hogbrook Hill in Alkham.