A father has died in a motorcycle crash while on a paradise island made famous in the book and film The Beach.

Andrew McCartney died in Koh Samui, Thailand, a beautiful island with sandy beaches, coral reefs and coconut trees.

A memorial service for the 33-year-old, who was married and is believed to be originally from Horsham, will take place at 2pm on October 19 in Roffey Sports and Social Club.

AFacebook page in memory of Mr McCartney has also been set up.

Called the Andrew McCartney Memorial Page, people have shared tributes to him.

One message said: “Andrew had lived on Koh Samui for three years and was a big part of the local community, running Lords Bar&Grill with his wife.

He will be sadly missed by his wife, Pom, his children, his mum, and sisters Sacha and Sally. Rest in Peace.”

Monique Moran said: “My beautiful boy there is a hole in my heart which can never be filled. I will always love you Andrew. Mum.”

David Cornock said: “You will be missed mate.

“Just as it was all coming together. Still can’t and don't want to believe it. Rest in Peace buddy.

“I'll see you again, when the stars fall from the sky.”

Carol Wicks wrote: “Overwhelmed by sadness when I heard about this tragic news.

It shouldn’t have happened to such a lovely boy.”

Simon Turner described him as a “down-to-earth and genuine guy”, while Rob Skinner said Mr McCartney had always been “a nice guy”.

People in Koh Samui also left handwritten tributes which the organisers of the memorial site have copied online.