THE grieving parents of a man knocked down and killed in Dovercourt have paid tribute to their son who “had a heart of gold”.

Charles Reader, 28, of Rebow Road, Dovercourt, died when he was hit by a black Renault Clio near The Royal pub in Main Road, Dovercourt at 9.30pm yesterday.

His father, Paul Reader, 58, of Elmhurst Road, Dovercourt, said his son was kind, popular and hard working.

He said: “He had a heart of gold and everybody always spoke nicely of him.

“He will be badly missed.”

Charles’ sisters also paid a heartfelt tribute calling him a “loving brother and uncle.”

Emma Reader, 26, of Rebow Road, Dovercourt, said: “I want him to be remembered for who he was, as a fun loving guy who was a loving brother and uncle.”