A HEADTEACHER has paid tribute to a 14-year-old schoolboy who died in a freak motorbike accident in Istead Rise Woods near Gravesend.

Jason Gill, of Aspdin Road, Northfleet, was killed after crashing his motorbike in a private wooded area on Bank Holiday Monday.

The St George's School pupil was with a group of friends at the time and riding around the woods. No other vehicles were involved in the incident and Jason was wearing safety equipment.

His headteacher, Ray Slade, said: "Jason was a very popular lad with a wide circle of friends and acquaintances. His very sad death will be a shock to the whole school community. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jason's family."

Police are conducting a full investigation into the tragedy and an inquest will be held.