Tributes have been paid to a young man from Uxbridge who died after being hit by a car in Essex.

Nick Sherwood, 25, was killed in a collision with an Audi A4 in St Andrews Avenue, in Colchester, at around 3.45am on Sunday (February 8).

Dozens of floral tributes have been placed at the scene, along with a tribute and photograph left by his girlfriend of three-and-a-half years, Lilie Smyth, 22, who is from Colchester.

She wrote: "To my darling Nicky, where do I start? How am I supposed to live without you?

"You are my best friend, my boyfriend and my whole world. I would have done anything to make you happy.

"I would give the world to have you back just for one day.

"You were the most perfect person to ever walk on this earth, and perhaps that’s why you were taken away from us, no one can be lucky enough to have you forever.

"You were far too special for this life, it’s their turn to have you up there now. I bet you've made so many friends already!

"You lit up every room you walked in and could put a smile on anybody’s face.

"You were truly the most genuine, kind-hearted, person I have ever met.

"You will be in my heart forever.

"I have been broken into pieces but I will try to be strong for you. You hated it so much when I cried.

"I will always be your princess and I hope you will watch over me forever.

"I love you so much. Forever and always."

Floral tributes at the scene (Colchester Gazette)

Friends commenting on the Uxbridge Gazette's Facebook page remembered Mr Sherwood for his sense of humour and described him as "one of a kind".

Jake Warman wrote: “Nick Sherwood you were such a great guy never failed to put a smile on anyone's face, everyone who knew you would have known you were one of a kind.

“I wish we could have done our larkspur reunion mate, have a drink for all of us up there as we will be having a few for you down here!

“Gonna miss you loads brother. Love you man R.I.P.”

Mat Miles added: “By far one of the funniest geezers I've ever known.. Was a pleasure knowing you mate.”

Lorraine Miles posted: “Such a tragic loss. One of my son's funniest friends ... Whenever there was laughter you could guarantee Nicky was at the epicentre. Taken far too soon - Laughter is obviously needed in heaven. My heart goes out to Heidi, Dave and young Danny, I can't begin to imagine what they're going through. RIP Nick Sherwood.”

A 29-year-old man from Crawley, in Sussex, is helping police with their inquiries. He has not been arrested.

Essex Police officers are appealing for anyone with information to call 101, or email collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk.