Tributes have been paid to a prison teacher after he took his own life.

Andrew Cartwright was found dead at his home in Whybornes Chase, Minster, on November 4, an inquest opening in Maidstone revealed.

His family have described him as someone who would always see the good in people and said the loss had left his friends and colleagues at HMP Elmley saddened.

Andrew's brother and sister-in-law Richard Cartwright and Lori Cartwright revealed the family have been left "completely devastated" following the 52-year-old's death.

Richard said: "He was a private person who was always dedicated to his work. He was the most conscientious person and was obsessed with his work.

"We've spoke to some of his colleagues and they told us how devastated they were by the news. He was amazing at what he did because he was patient and always saw the best in everyone."

A full inquest into the father-of-two's death is set to go ahead in January, but his family revealed he was struggling with a number of personal issues, including the impact of Covid-19 and having to work from home while living alone.

"He was worried he would pass the virus onto his sons, parents, friends and family, so became isolated," Richard added.

Andrew has lived on the Island his whole life with his family, including his parents Philip and Sylvia Cartwright who live in Summerville Avenue in Minster.

The former banking and finance worker is survived by his two sons Ryan, 23, and Jac, 20, and loved a cup of tea according to his family.

His sister-in-law Lori said: "He was the kindest, most lovely person who never had a bad word to say about anybody.

"He always saw the good in people and would help everybody out. Everyone is distraught.

"I don't think he realised just how much he was loved."

Andrew was well known on the Isle of Sheppey, having gone to Halfway Primary School and Sheppey comprehensive, and used to take his keyboard round the Island to play for people.

In the event of his death he had asked for people to donate to Great Ormond Street children's hospital which looked after his nephew, Richard and Lori's son, Perri, who died shortly after birth in 2006.

Urging anyone to seek help if they're struggling with mental illness, Richard said: "If you need help ask for it. Don't bottle things up.

"Suicide is on the rise massively, especially in men, and there's plenty of charities and helplines who you can contact if you can't speak to family or friends."

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