Moving tributes were paid to teenager Jason Pettey at a service celebrating his life.

Family, friends and colleagues packed into St Mildred’s Church, Tenterden, on Tuesday to share fond memories of the 19-year-old.

Many in the 200-plus congregation had been at Homewood School with Jason.

Among those paying tribute were Homewood principal Sally Lees and head of music Yvette Snow.

Canon Lindsay Hammond, who led the service, read a statement from Jason’s father, Vince Pettey.

“I have always had no doubt that he was a popular boy and young man,” said Mr Pettey.

“I was really astonished at the number of people who have been saying how much he meant to them. You all meant to so much to him as well.

“We are devastated by our loss. We had spent so much time together and had conversations on different things, often laughing until we cried.”

Mr Pettey talked of Jason growing up, how thrilled he was to go fishing with his father and of his love of nature and animals.

He continued: “Celebrate his short life and then try to have the best version of your lives as you can manage.

“All who knew him will know he would be the first person to say cheer up.

“I loved you so much, my son. You have been taken far too early.

“There was so much to achieve – I am very proud of you.”

The 50-minute service began with everyone being asked to light a candle for Jason.

A large screen flashed up images of him growing up, at school, celebrating successes and with family and friends.

Mrs Lees led the memories of Jason.

She said: “He is fondly remembered by all who worked alongside him.

“Jason was, and always will be, part of our school community. He found his skill in the music department where he shared his passion for music with pupils and teachers.

“He made friendships with many who wanted the best for him. His talents were recognised and he found fulfillment in performances.”

She added: “We can look back on the good times and celebrate all that Jason brought to enrich the lives of others.”

A pupil who was a “real pain” was recalled by Mrs Snow.

Fighting back tears, she said: “He was a real pain. Class work was always late and he was always late.

“Then something magical happened, and he found something he loved doing.

“He loved performing and did not realise he had a really good voice.

“He shone brightly and is now in the sky shining down on us. He was always laughing and had this amazing knack of bringing us all together.”

Five members of Homewood School choir sung In The Arms of an Angel, by Sarah McLachlan.

Jason, who lived with his father and older brother Glen in Ashford Road, St Michael’s, was found hanged in woods behind Kent & East Sussex Railway at around 7am on Tuesday, March 10.

Police are not treating the death as suspicious. An inquest will be held.