A school is in mourning after the sudden death of a 15-year-old pupil.

Year 10 pupil Ben Hammond, who attended Homewood School in Tenterden, died at the William Harvey Hospital, Ashford, on Sunday.

Principal Sally Lees has paid tribute to the popular lad, who was preparing to go to agricultural college next year.

The school has opened a book of condolence for fellow pupils and staff members to share their memories of Ben.

Homewood School issued a statement: "We have today heard the very sad news that Ben Hammond, a Year 10 student at Homewood School, died in hospital yesterday.

"His friends, fellow students and teachers were told the news this morning. Ben was a popular student with a strong friendship group and he will be greatly missed at Homewood.

"Ben had a bright future ahead of him - he was involved in Duke of Edinburgh and Scouts and he was preparing to go to agricultural college when he left Homewood next year.

"The school is opening a book of condolence and staff and students will be invited to use it to express their thoughts and their memories of Ben."

Sally Lees, principal, of Homewood said “We are all so sad to hear this news. Ben was a unique and valued member of the Homewood School community and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

"On behalf of everyone at Homewood, I would like to express my sincere condolences to Ben’s parents, brother and his wider family.

"We will do all we can to support them and Ben’s friends at this very sad time.”

A police spokesman said: "Officers are conducting inquiries into the circumstances of the death, as is standard procedure, however it is not believed to be suspicious."