The associate editor of a popular local discussion website has died.

Howard McSweeney, of the Dover Forum, died in the Willam Harvey Hospital in Ashford.

The news was broken last Thursday by one member, former town councillor Keith Sansum.

Mr Sansum wrote on the website: "I am sorry to have to inform you all that Howard recently passed away in the William Harvey Hospital.

"It's sad when one of our active community people pass away.

"I became award of Howard in the '90s when he gave me lots of advice around council and local opinons.

"Howard went on to give clear views on what he though, not worrying about how he said it but usually it was wise words.

"Communities were in his blood.

"Howard will always been known as the chap who was always smiling, a community champion. This is one of Dover's saddest days."

Paul Boland, editor of the Dover Forum until 2012, told the Mercury: "I am sorry to hear of this sad news as it was quite a surprise. He did some great work on

Dover Forum."

Mr McSweeney, was from from the Clarendon and Westbury area and lived alone.

He moved to Dover from Essex and became deeply involved in this community such as in youth club organisation.

He had been part of the Dover Forum since 2008.

After the news broke tributes on the website poured in.

Ray Hutstone wrote: "Such an intelligent and articulate observer of local life. RIP Howard."

Judith Roberts said; "He was obviously a much loved figure in Dover." She added that Mr McSweeney not afraid to voice his opinions.

Jan Higgins wrote: "Howard your posts will be greatly missed, you helped to keep this group alive."