A community has been rocked by the sudden death of an "adored gentleman" who dedicated his life to helping the homeless.

James Duff was a much-loved personality in Canterbury, and well-known by many for his tireless efforts to support the vulnerable.

He had been the chairman of trustees at homelessness charity Catching Lives, and spent numerous years offering his support to the community.

Tributes have flooded in since his death was announced yesterday afternoon, with the city's MP stating "Canterbury will not be the same without him".

Described as a "dear friend and colleague", Catching Lives says Mr Duff's "tremendous legacy" will now live on.

"James was a deeply loved and adored son, brother, uncle, partner and friend," a statement from the charity reads.

"James will always be remembered for his passion, dedication, care and incredibly sarcastic sense of humour. And for always putting the kettle on. His loss is profound."

In paying tribute, Canterbury MP Rosie Duffield says she will "miss him very much".

"There's so much I want to say about dear James - I am not only writing this as Canterbury's MP who knows and values the huge impact he had on so many lives but as someone who considered him a friend, one of my very favourite Canterbury people and the very best hugger and tea maker," she said.

"James was kind, very funny and extremely modest, refusing to take any praise or personal credit for his work.

"I can hardly believe this has happened.

"I am devastated and so are my team who knew and worked with lovely James Duff over the last few years. Canterbury will not be the same without him."

Dozens of other city residents have also paid tribute to Mr Duff.

Among them is Emily Wells, who wrote: "Just saddened beyond belief to hear this.

"I’ll always remember James as a polite, kind gentleman whose kindness and compassion for Canterbury’s most vulnerable really shone through."

Ann Moneypenny wrote: "So sad, he was a lovely man and so pleased I was lucky enough to have met him. RIP James you will be an angel in heaven as you were on earth."