A Bexhill teenager who died after the car he was travelling in hit a parked van has been named by police.

Ricky Alan Atkins, 19, of London Road, was critically injured in the collision on Holliers Hill in the town on Thursday.

The green Citroen Saxo he was travelling in collided with a parked van at 1.05am.

He died at the Conquest Hospital in Hastings.

In a tribute to him his family said: “Ricky was a loving brother and son, everyone who knew him loved him.

“Ricky was a kind hearted boy who loved his family and friends dearly.

“We will carry him in our hearts forever. Rest in peace Ricky Atkins, we love |you.”

Ali Luigi Trevor Pugh, 19, a gardener, of Skinners Lane, Catsfield, Battle, has been charged with causing death by driving a vehicle while unlicensed, causing death by driving a vehicle while not insured and failing to stop at the scene of a road traffic collision.

He appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court and was remanded in custody.

Sergeant Stacey Ellott from the Road Policing Unit said: “The investigation into this collision is still ongoing and police are keen to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who may have any information that may assist us with out inquiries.”

Witnesses should call 101 quoting Operation Account or email collision. appeal@sussex.pnn.police.uk.