The family of a much-loved dad say no words can describe the void his tragic death has left in their lives. Ollie Ovenden, 33, of Littlebourne near Canterbury, died last Friday, five years after his older brother Matthew was killed in a freak accident.

More than £5,000 has been raised within days to support his fiancé, Lucy, and young daughter, Maisie, while tributes have poured in. Ollie’s parents - Nick and Doreen - say the multiskilled construction worker “battled demons he couldn’t escape”.

But they added in a statement released this week how they “pray he is now free of pain and at peace, back with his older brother Matt”. “We are heartbroken to share that Ollie has tragically passed away,” they said.

• Two people killed in 'devastating' multi-car crash named and pictured


• Man beat neighbour with chair leg in row over noise

“A much-loved son, brother, devoted partner and amazing dad, he meant everything to us. We as a family are totally broken and will miss him more than words can ever say. Please keep our family in your thoughts at this incredibly difficult time.”

Ollie worked for Aylesham-based Ovenden Group, a plant hire company which has described his passing as “devastating”. He had a passion for motorsport, and was proud to have helped complete the build of a Ford Escort racing car, which Matthew had started.

Racing driver Tom Ovenden, Ollie’s second cousin and the reigning Mini Challenge champion, has scored victories in the Modified Ford Series since the Mk1 RSR model was completed in 2024. In a statement, Ovenden Group said Ollie’s death is “deeply felt by us all”.

“We hold Lucy, Maisie, Nick and Doreen, and his brother Alby and sister Natasha, in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time,” it said. " May he find peace now, together again with his brother Matt.

“lf you are struggling, please remember that support is available and you are never alone. In Ollie's memory, Ovenden Group will be supporting SOS Silence of Suicide [a suicide prevention and emotional wellbeing helpline], helping to raise awareness and contribute to the vital work they do.

“Forever in our hearts, Ollie.”

Thousands of pounds were raised to support Lucy and Maisie just hours after the fundraising campaign was launched. Organiser Jenna Chamberlain said Ollie “meant everything to his family and will be deeply missed by all who knew him”.

“His passing is heartbreakingly close to the loss of Matthew - a loss the family continues to carry,” she wrote. “During this unimaginably difficult time, we are raising funds to help Lucy remain in the family home with Maisie, providing them with stability and security as they begin to navigate life without Ollie.

“Our hope is to keep life as normal as possible for Maisie while Lucy focuses on supporting her through the days ahead. Any support, no matter how small, will be truly appreciated. Thank you for your kindness, generosity, and for keeping this family in your thoughts.”

Matthew was killed in a freak chainsaw accident at his home in Ash, near Sandwich, in February 2021.

His family described the 35-year-old contracts manager as “a kind soul with a big heart”.

If you are in distress, you can call the Samaritans free at any time from any phone on 116 123. Lines are open 24 hours a day. You can also email jo@samaritans.org