The sudden death of a popular and hugely knowledgeable journalist has devastated his family and led to a flood of tributes from his friends and work colleagues.

Johnny Homer, who was 56 and worked for Shepherd Neame, suffered a heart attack on Friday night.

He lived in Whitstable with his wife Lydia and daughter Harriet.

Lydia broke the news of his death in a post on Facebook, writing: "I am devastated to write that at 7.25pm last night the love of my life died from a heart attack.

"Harriet and I are in shock. We will love you forever Johnny Homer XxX".

Brewery boss Jonathan Neame described Johnny, who was a communications executive, as a "fantastic ambassador" for the company and its beers and pubs.

"His loss is a great shock to us all," he said, adding "he will be greatly missed and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this time."

Before joining Shepherd Neame, Johnny worked as a journalist at What's On In London, Oracle Teletext, The Press Association and Northcliffe Media, the latter as sports editor of four weekly newspaper titles in Kent, including the Whitstable and Herne Bay Times.

His freelance work appeared in The Guardian, The Face, NME, Melody Maker, Sounds, Vox and several other publications.

He was a published author, writing seven books on beer and pubs, with an eighth to be released later this year.

He was also a popular broadcaster, best known for his regular contributions to The Robert Elms Show on BBC Radio London during the past two decades.

Johnny was born and raised in Finsbury in London and was an enthusiastic Arsenal fan.

A knowledgeable and passionate advocate for the capital, he also spent several years offering acclaimed guided walking tours of the city.

Dozens of tributes have been paid to him by friends and colleagues online, praising his gentle, compassionate nature, and unique quirky sense of humour.

Friends have described Johnny as "a true legend" and have quickly responded with messages of love and support for his family.

Responding to his wife's post, Daniel Myhill wrote: "Truly shocked and stunned. An absolute legend with so many football memories. Sending all our love to you and Harriet."

Sue Mercer added: "Such devastating news. It was such an honour knowing Johnny and working with him at Shepherd Neame. He was always such a gentleman and an amazing tour guide."

Beverley Ferrell wrote: "I am so sorry to hear this devastating news. He was the best tour guide ever and I knew I would have a good day when he was down to be the tour guide.

"A real loss to this world. It was a real pleasure I got to meet and work with him. Thoughts are with you both."

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