Tributes have been paid to a man described as having a 'heart of gold' who was killed in a road accident while trying to hitch a lift.

Hitchhiker Ashley Taylor, from Watton, was on his way to see friends in Thetford when he was struck by a pick-up truck on the A1075 near to Wayland Woods.

The 32-year-old suffered a severe head injury and died at the scene.

His mum Jane Taylor, who lives in Scarning, said she was 'devastated' when she given the news that her eldest son, who affectionately always called her mummy, had died 'doing something he had always done'.

The married mother-of-three, who works at a free-range egg farm in Swanton Morley, said Mr Taylor would call or text her everyday and would visit her once or twice a week.

She said: 'He had a heart of gold. If neighbours wanted shopping or a hand with anything, he would help them out.

'He was brilliant. No matter what life threw at him, he was never down or miserable. He was always laughing and joking. He was happy-go-lucky and took everything in his stride.'

Mr Taylor was hit by a black Mitsubishi 4x4 at about 12.30pm on Wednesday, January 8.

Police are still making inquiries into his death and an inquest is due to be held later this year.

Mr Taylor, who was 6ft 6in, lived on his own in George Trollope Road, Watton, but had made plans to live with his girlfriend of seven years Zobinia Huckle.

The former Northgate High School pupil, who was born in North Elmham and grew up in the Dereham area, was said to love music and loved spending time with his young neice Mia and two nephews Morgan and Aflie.

He was out of work at the time of his death but wanted to go to college and study IT.

His aunt Teresa Wade said: 'He would do anything for anybody, would help anybody out. He had so many friends. Everybody who knew him, loved him.

'He didn't do any harm to anybody - it's why it's so hard to get your head around what's happened to him. He had his life planned. He had his girlfriend, they were going to move in together, they were planning a life together, then all of a sudden it's gone.'

Mr Taylor's funeral was held at St Mary's Church in North Elmham last Thursday.

His family, including his mum, aunt, dad John, brother Jamie and sister Lucy, said they wanted to thank everyone for the support they have been given.

Do you want to pay tribute to a loved one? Email newsdesk@archant.co.uk.