Touching tributes have been paid to a serving Kent Police detective who has died aged 37.

Well-respected DS Ben Turner, who had served with the force for 13 years, passed away on Friday.

Flags at the county's police stations are flying at half mast to honour the "one-in-million" officer, who was based at Tonbridge.

A Kent Police spokesman said today: "It is with great sadness that we can confirm the death of DS Ben Turner on 15 February.

"Ben was a member of the Tonbridge reactive investigation team in west division and was a respected and popular officer.

"He joined Kent Police in 2000 and worked in a variety of roles.

"A book of condolence will be available in the coming days for colleagues to celebrate Ben's life and pay their respects while the force's flags have been at half mast as a mark of respect."

Dozens of tributes have been paid to DS Turner (pictured above) on the Kent Police Federation's Facebook page.

Friend Hayley Campbell posted: "He was a great copper, and was always ready to give you and hand and never too busy to help to point you in the right direction.

"it is clear that ben was one in a million and that his passing has affected so many people..." – kent police federation chairman ian pointon

"A real loss to everyone. Always ready with laughter and to crack a joke to cheer anyone up."

Another, Claire Black said: "I really can't believe you've gone, such awful and shocking news. Next time I go to work I will still be expecting to see that cheeky grin."

Friend Tim Price said: "Ben was an awesome copper and all round top bloke. The entire nick will be in mourning. We have lost one of the family, and it will be a darker place now he's gone."

Kent Police Federation chairman Ian Pointon said: "The response to the tragic loss of Ben Turner has been beyond imagination.

"The messages of condolence from immediate colleagues, members of the public and colleagues from other forces has been overwhelming.

"It is clear that Ben was one in a million and that his passing has affected so many people."

Did you know DS Ben Turner? Leave your tributes below.