A YOUNG man killed in a crash on the A31 at the weekend is believed to have been standing in the carriageway at the time of the collision, police say.

Connor Heath Johnson, 22, suffered fatal injuries in the collision, which took place in the early hours of Sunday morning at the bottom of Poulner Hill.

Mr Johnson, who lived in Hightown Gardens, Ringwood, was the driver of a silver Peugeot 206 estate.

The second vehicle involved was a coach operated by Poole-based company Seaview.

Yesterday, a spokesperson from Hampshire police said: "Officers believe Mr Johnson was in the road at the time of the collision.

"Investigations are ongoing."

Leanne Symonds, the head of Ringwood School, said former pupil Mr Johnson had a "heart of gold".

"Connor will be remembered for his heart of gold and his infectious smile," she said.

"It was a pleasure to work with such a lovely young man.

"Our deepest condolences go to his family at this saddest of times.”

Emergency services were called to the westbound carriageway of the A31 at 2.15am on Sunday.

In a statement released through Hampshire police, Mr Johnson's family said: "He is at peace now having suffered anxieties for the past couple of years.

"He was our loving son and will always remain in our hearts."