A 28-year-old man who was killed when the car he was travelling in hit a tree has been identified.

Nicholas Messenger, of Old Kent Road, London, died when the light blue BMW crashed in Grand Parade, Brighton, near to the Easy Hours news agent at 6.45am on Friday.

The road was closed for more than five hours while police investigated the scene.

Mr Messenger's partner, Liz, said: “Nicky was a wonderful man, a fantastic father and a brilliant friend and he will be sadly missed forever.”

Mr Messenger was one of four men in the vehicle. The 40-year-old driver of the car has been arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drink.

He has been bailed until April 5 pending further inquiries.

Sussex Police is appealing for witnesses to contact them by calling 0845 6070999, quoting Operation Northway.