A loyal former senior partner of a Kent law firm has died, aged 65, after a short illness.

Michael Sugden spent his entire career at Thomson Snell & Passmore, based in Tunbridge Wells and Dartford.

He joined as a trainee in 1972 and became an active member of the Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and District Law Society Law Society, where he was once president.

He specialised in conveyancing and practiced in offices in Cranbrook, Ashford and Tunbridge Wells.

Outside of work, he was a lifelong supporter of Liverpool FC and a keen member of Biddenden squash and tennis club.

Mr Sugden lived in Biddenden and Hawkhurst before retiring to the South of France in 2008.

He is survived by his widow Jill, two sons and a daughter.

Thomson Snell & Passmore senior partner James Partridge said: “He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, former colleagues and clients.”

A memorial service is being held at King Charles the Martyr Church, Tunbridge Wells, at 1.30pm on Monday, April 11, 2016.