A selfless young gardener has been described as a "really gentle soul" following his tragic death aged 27.

Carlo Barton, who lived in Broomfield, near Herne Bay, was a familiar sight travelling around the area on his mountain bike and accompanying trailer.

But the popular nature-lover had battled with his mental health and sadly took his own life.

The self-employed gardener - who headed up his own firm, C B Gardening Services - was known for selflessly putting time aside to chat with his clients, many of whom lived alone.

Carlo was a lodger who lived in Silverdale Drive with Wendy Checksfield, who became his close friend and described him as family.

She has spoken of her shock following his tragic death on February 1 and paid a heartfelt tribute to the young man.

"Carlo was a really gentle soul who practised elements of Buddhism," the 41-year-old told KentOnline.

"He was one of those people who would do anything for anyone.

"His mum told me a story where he gave a homeless person the pair of shoes he was wearing.

"Carlo risked not being allowed to get on a flight as it happened at an airport.

"He didn’t have a lot to give away as he wasn’t a massively wealthy guy, but he would give away his last pound to help someone else.

"His clients thought quite a lot of him."

Carlo was born in Zimbabwe and moved to South Africa before settling in the UK.

A lot of his family are abroad, with his mum living in the Netherlands and his grandparents residing in South Africa.

He was well-known in the Broomfield area and would often be spotted riding to jobs on his mountain bike with a trailer attached.

"He wasn’t just a gardener - he would sit, have a cup of tea and a chat with his clients as a lot of them lived alone," Ms Checksfield added.

"Sometimes Carlo might be the only person they see that day or week.

"He took time out to sit with them and find out about their days.

"Carlo had time for anyone and enjoyed playing the ukulele and guitar as well as reading.

"He was a bit of a hippy and free spirit who loved being with nature, which is partly why he went into gardening."

Carlo was tragically found dead at his home after concerns were raised for his welfare.

A police spokesman confirmed his death is not being treated as suspicious and a report has been prepared for the coroner.

Ms Checksfield added: "It did come as a shock.

"I knew his mental health was poor and we were trying to get him into the mental health system.

"It is incredibly sad because he went from being a really vibrant character to being unable to battle depression.

"Unfortunately, it happens to so many people."

As a mental health worker herself, Ms Checksfield is all too familiar with the struggles people face.

"He was a bit of a hippy and free spirit who loved being with nature..."

"We should break the stigma and make sure we’re talking and listening to people," she said.

"Everybody is facing their own struggles in life and sometimes it can be that reassuring text or cup of tea that can make a big difference to somebody.

"I work in mental health and I see how dark it can get for people.

"It is hard to go to a GP - perhaps even more so if you’re male to say that you’re struggling and to get the help rather than being given antidepressants, which aren’t right for everyone.

"It is hard to access mental health services because they are overrun."

A memorial service will be held for Carlo at Hampton Beach at 1.30pm on Saturday, April 15.

For confidential support on an emotional issue, call Samaritans on 116 123 at any time.