The death of a Polish man whose body was pulled from the river in Canterbury has been described as “desperately sad” by a charity which helps the homeless.

Police and an ambulance crew were called to North Lane shortly after 6.30am on Friday following reports of somebody in the Stour.

The man was taken out of the river and officers taped off Miller’s Field car park and set up a tarpaulin tent.

The dead man was later identified as 27-year-old Roman Mol, who was known to the charity Catching Lives and a regular visitor to its centre in Station Road East. He had also used its night shelter during the winter.

Manager Terry Gore said: “It desperately sad because he was a nice lad who came to England to try and make a better life for himself.

“We first had contact with him about nine months ago and he was in the centre the day before he was found.

“Unfortunately it didn’t work out for him and although he was making an effort, he couldn’t find work and was sleeping rough.

"It’s tragic to think of another young life ended like this" - Terry Gore

“He got a bit depressed and started drinking. It’s tragic to think of another young life ended like this and there have been far too many lately. But we will just carry on doing all we can to help those on the streets."

He added: “I don’t know how it happened but I suppose one scenario is that he could have been drinking and fallen in the river.

“It’s been quite upsetting for us and particularly his Polish circle of friends in the city.”

Detectives are appealing for anyone who might have seen Mr Mol prior to his death to come forward.

They say his death is being treated as unexplained and officers are asking for anyone who knew him and saw him in the days before his death to contact them.

Anyone with information can contact Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting 29-142.