Floral tributes and candles have been left near where homeless mum Shelley Pollard tragically collapsed and died this week.

The mum-of-three was well known in the city and is remembered as being polite and thoughtful to all those who chatted with her at her regular begging spot near the Eastbridge almshouse.

Local Paul Johnson knew Shelley for three years after working on the nearby boats and remembers her always asking how people were. He says it was noticeable her health was deteriorating.

He told KentOnline's sister paper the Kentish Gazette: "I saw Shelley the day she died and she didn't look right, I noticed she was sitting differently and looked ill - I asked if she was ok and she didn't really talk to me which was not like her at all; she had food with her and there was nothing more I could have done really.

"People have told me that she didn't want to speak to a doctor either."

Mr Johnson says he often spoke to her because it was unusual to see a homeless woman on the street and she always begged at the same spot.

"It made me think about her - there are often more homeless men and it made me think that we should all try and speak with anyone (rough sleepers) as it could brighten their day.

"Shelley would always say 'God bless you' to people who gave her money or food and drink. It's very tragic."

The mum-of-three grew up on the London Road estate, attending Canterbury Academy, but her life spiralled out of control when she became addicted to heroin.

Ambulance crews battled to save her after she collapsed at around 6pm on Wednesday evening but sadly they could not revive her.

Shelley's family, who still live on the estate, are too distressed to comment but say they will be making funeral arrangements in due course.