A beloved postman was killed after being hit by a car while walking home for dinner just weeks before his 60th birthday.
Andrew ‘Andy’ Gardiner, 59, died in the collision on Sunday around 6.39pm on Canterbury Road in Folkestone, Kent.
He was well known throughout Folkestone, where his family described him as the town’s ‘best-known postie’.
Andy, who was on foot, was reportedly struck by a black Volkswagen Sharan outside the Black Bull pub, near the junction with Downs Road.
He was treated by South East Coast Ambulance Service but was pronounced dead at the scene.
Andy’s heartbroken daughter, Elli Gardiner, said: ‘The man who stayed by my side through everything, supported me through everything and held my hand at every step.
‘Less than six weeks short of 60 amazing years spent smiling, my dad was tragically taken from me, his grandson, his family, friends and loved ones.
‘Words cannot explain the pain I am feeling, the confusion, anger and shock running through me. He was loved by so many but I know the love he had for me and my son could never compare.
‘My dad was everything to me; his grandson idolised him and I cannot believe he is gone.’
His family said Andy loved running, football, music, the outdoors and socialising with friends. He had also been a long-serving member of Royal Mail.
In a tribute issued through Kent Police, they said: ‘Andy was an amazing father, grandfather, brother, partner, friend. Tragically taken too soon from all who knew and loved him.
‘Known for his infectious smile, his running, his football, his love of music and the outdoors and being the best-known postie in all of Folkestone.
‘Such a happy man with enough love to give to everyone around him. Rest in peace, Andy (AG) Gardiner. Forever loved and missed.’
Elli has launched a fundraiser to help give her father ‘the best send-off possible’.
She said Andy had made life happier for his daughter, grandson, partner, brothers, nieces, nephews and friends.
A 49-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday (3 November) on suspicion of causing death by careless driving.
Kent Police said he was subsequently released on bail while enquiries continue.
Officers from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage.
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