Tributes have been paid to an “absolutely brilliant” doctor who treated many after founding a town centre surgery.

It’s been announced Dr Mark Pasola, from the Meads Medical Practice in Sittingbourne, has died.

A spokesman for the surgery, which he set up in 2015, said: “It is with great sadness that we have to announce that our friend and colleague Dr Mark Pasola has passed away.

“Dr Pasola was actively involved in working to improve the health and wellbeing of the local community for many years.

“He will be greatly missed by everyone at the practice as both a valued colleague, mentor and a dear friend to so many.

“Our thoughts are with his wife and daughter, as well as his wider family. We appreciate your patience as staff mourn the loss of their colleague.”

After the news of Dr Pasola’s death spread, many of his patients and friends began to share their condolences.

“He will be greatly missed by everyone...”

One of his friends said: “Since his untimely death, Dr Mark Pasola's colleagues and patients have spoken touchingly about his wisdom and medical skills.

“Mark Pasola was a much loved GP who always went that extra mile.

“Many won't know that Mark was also an extraordinarily fine singer and studied for over 25 years with his teacher and friend, James Anderson.

“It is often said that ‘the voice is the person’. How true this is, for Mark's singing voice was distinctive for its purity, honesty and warmth which truly sums up this amazing man who has helped so many of us in all sorts of ways.

“His passing is a heavy sadness for all who knew him. He will be remembered with gratitude and much affection.”

A patient of Dr Pasola took to Facebook to pay tribute to him.

They said: “Very sad, he was one of the best doctors I came across. He was always willing to help no matter what it was.”

Another commented: “This has broken me. He was an absolutely brilliant doctor who helped my family through so much.

“My thoughts are with his family and close friends.”

Someone else described the GP as a “kind and gentle soul”.

They said: “He was so instrumental on my way to healing and recovery after being diagnosed with PTSD due to childhood trauma.

“He took the time to listen and cared enough to want to help. Patients were not just a number to him, they actually mattered.”

Many commented on Mr Pasola’s outstanding care.

One woman said: “Mark Pasola was such a wonderful caring doctor, one of the best.

“He treated my partner and always had time to listen, have a laugh, and always had a big smile and was happy to see you.

“He was a lovely man and a great doctor…”

“He will be sadly missed by all, my thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Others described Dr Pasola as the “best doctor”, “fantastic” and “sympathetic, caring, compassionate, understanding and time-giving.”

One added: “This is such sad news. He was a lovely man and a great doctor.

“Let’s hope he built strong enough foundations for the surgery to continue to be successful and one of the few in town that seems to work.”

The Meads Medical Practice is rated "good” by the Care Quality Commission.

The surgery and the NHS have been contacted for further information.