THE heartbroken parents of a businessman killed by a car while walking home from a party say he was a “shining star”.

Paul Ostridge and Freya Vardy said Lee Ostridge was a “wonderful young man” who was just starting his life.

Mr Ostridge, 23, from Begbroke, near Yarnton, was walking along the A44 Woodstock Road when the accident happened early on Wednesday morning. Location of the crash Last night his parents said they were numb with grief.

Mr Ostridge snr said: “We’re absolutely heartbroken.

“It’s killing us. It hasn’t sunk in yet and we’re still in shock about what happened.

“Lee was a wonderful son who was just at the beginning of his life.”

Mr Ostridge ran marquee hire firm J&L Marquees in Tackley with friend Joel Walker for the last three years.

His father said: “He was a hard worker with his own business. We were so proud of him and we loved him very much.”

Flowers have been laid at the scene of the accident, near Oxford Airport.

Mrs Vardy said her son was loved by everybody he met.

She said: “Lee was so enthusiastic and could speak to everybody.

“He was a shining star who shone so brightly. Lee was never a problem and was always there if you needed help.

“When he was growing up he never wanted toys, just hammers and nails so he could build things. Lee will be fondly remembered by everyone.”

More than 120 people have joined a Facebook page set up in Mr Ostridge’s memory.

Sam Anderson said: “Rest in peace, I never knew you that well but always remember seeing you smile around school.”

Chris Preston added: “RIP mate, we always had a laugh when you turned up in the yard. Still cannot believe what has happened. Our thoughts will be with your family, partner and friends.”

The former pupil of Marlborough School, Woodstock, was taken to Oxford’s John Radcliffe Hospital but died a few hours later.

Police said a blue Vauxhall Astra collided with Mr Ostridge shortly after 2.45am as he walked home from a party. No arrests have been made.

Anyone with information should call Sgt Peter Jell on 08458 505505, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.