A mum has been left heartbroken following the sudden death of her “kind and loving” son, aged 23.

Jennifer Hadlow found her “sensitive and caring boy” Louis Sutton dead at their home in Appledore, near Ashford.

Talented artist Louis had struggled with a long-term illness causing respiratory and liver failure.

Mrs Hadlow says that recently her son had been “forced to buy prescription medication from the streets” due to a lack of support from the government and the NHS.

The 60-year-old told KentOnline that Louis’ death has left a “massive hole in the hearts of his friends and family”.

“Louis was a very kind and loving person. He was very sensitive to people's feelings and emotions,” she said.

“He absolutely loved being in nature and outdoors. Skating was a passion of his and he spent so much time with his friends.

“Louis adored his friends and family. He was close to everyone that knew him.”

Louis, a former pupil of Brockhill school in Hythe, spent much of his time drawing and producing artwork.

Mrs Hadlow, who says she is “certain” her son did not take his own life, says art “helped considerably with his mental health” and he was “extremely talented”.

Following her son’s tragic death, Mrs Hadlow wants to help other young people who are struggling.

She added: “Louis had been on the same medication for so many years and he told the doctor he needed a stronger dose.

“He ended up taking to the streets to buy his medication.

“People are dying from drug overdoses because there is not enough help out there.

“I’m going to really push and try to help other people. I’m doing it for Louis.”

Louis' father, Graham, says he has "so many funny, silly, happy memories and adventures" with his son.

"I watched you grow into a kind, considerate, fun-loving young man who touched the hearts of so many, who lived life to the full in such a short time," he said.

"Gone much too soon with so much to offer. It’s a sad sad world without you Louis.

"God bless you Louis, nighty night, sleep tight, fly high, stay bright, I’ll be looking out for you.

"Always proud and in my heart with love, RIP little man.”

Louis' nan and grandad say their grandson was a "one-off".

"What lovely memories we have of our time together," they said.

"Always so cheerful and loving, we were so proud of your achievements and will treasure all your drawing books.

"We miss your hugs and cuddles. Sleep tight Louis."

Following Louis' death on November 22, a GoFundMe has been set up by one of his close friends, Michael Hall, to raise money for his funeral and a memorial bench.

So far, more than £2,500 has been donated and Mrs Hadlow says the support has been “incredible”.

As well as this, T-shirts with some of Louis's artwork printed on them are being sold, with all profits being added to the GoFundMe.

Many of Louis' friends have also paid tribute, describing him as a “funny, stylish, caring and incredible man”.

Mr Hall said: “Louis was a shining star that burned bright and brought light to everyone he touched with his presence

“He would always come out with the craziest jokes and remarks, which amongst many other things made him so special.

“He was such a unique, stylish and beautiful man who was an incredibly talented artist.

“I still see his smile and hear his laughter every day. He is so deeply missed by so many and he will live on in my memories forever.”

Issie Davey, who was a close friend of Louis for the past five years, says she will “never stop talking about him”.

She added: “Lu you are so ridiculously loved by so many people. I hope even the tiniest part of you knows this.

“I had some of the funniest, weirdest and best moments with you and I know you are somewhere with the freshest of Air Max [Nike trainers] on.

“I love you always.”

Isaac Shone says the “world will not be the same” after the death of his close friend.

“Lou was the kindest, most talented and most humble person I have ever met,” he said.

“Please check on your friends and family. Life is tough and we all need help at times.

“Going to miss you, brother.”

Jake Trimmins, who was one of Louis's best friends for 13 years, says he was the “most beautiful person” in his life.

He added: “Louis was my brother and my best friend.

“His soul was so pure and he deserved the entire world.

“No one and nothing will ever replace what Lou brought to this world but I know he's finally found his happiness, even though it may hurt us, he is no longer and that makes me happy for him.

“He will be with me forever.”