A devastated family have paid tribute to a young father following his shock death at a popular lake.

Dad-of-two Josh Bullock was found unresponsive while fishing at Conningbrook Lakes in Ashford.

A keen fisherman since childhood, the 29-year-old had been on a 48-hour trip at the Willesborough Road site when the tragedy occurred last Tuesday (May 9).

Having spoken to his partner Bobbie Barnes earlier that morning, Mr Bullock was discovered in his tent by two close friends, one of whom attempted CPR for more than 25 minutes before emergency services arrived at about 3.20pm.

His mum, Lee-Ann Bullock, says her “big-hearted” son - who was due to become a dad for the third time later this year - “was there for everyone”.

“His children were his reason for living, he absolutely adored them,” she added.

“He would go out of his way to be there for his family, friends, and even people who barely knew him.

“So many of his friends have got in contact or posted online to say how much he has impacted them, and helped them through some of the darkest times.

“But his real love was his family. He lived for us, and we lived for him.”

Tributes have flooded in for the young dad, who leaves behind son Harvey, 10, and daughter Lilianna, eight months.

“There is barely a dry eye in the area, everyone around here loved him,” Ms Bullock added.

“He always made an impact – whether that was at Papa G’s barbers in the town centre, where he got his hair cut, or in the Cameo nightclub.”

About a month ago, Mr Bullock learnt he was to become a father for the third time, with Ms Barnes due to give birth to their second child together in December.

“I am happy that he knew, we were so excited,” Ms Barnes said.

“He was the most amazing partner – I only wish that I had more time with him, and that I had met him earlier.

“He would come across as this big alpha male character, but in truth he was a big, soft teddy bear.

“He loved being loved, and he always reflected it back even more.”

A fundraiser has been set up in Mr Bullock’s memory and to care for his children following his sudden passing.

So far it has raised almost £3,300 in just five days. You can donate to the fundraiser here.

It is also understood that a number of the avid fisherman’s friends are hoping to establish a memorial bench at Conningbrook Lakes.