A dad-of-six has been described as a “loving, caring gentleman” following his tragic death in the sea.

Tributes have poured in to 38-year-old Matthew Collins, who died in Broadstairs just three weeks after the birth of his sixth child.

His heartbroken mum, Melanie Collins-Brett, says her son’s death has devastated his family.

“He was the best son ever and I’m going to miss him terribly,” she told KentOnline.

“He was my friend and such a gentle, loving and caring son.

“It’s hard to imagine I’m not going to see him again, and my heart will bleed until I do. I love and miss him.”

Mr Collins’ partner, Lucy Smith – the mother of his three-week-old son Ronnie – described him as “the most loving, kind man”.

“You are and will always be the love of my life,” she wrote in a touching tribute.

“You was the best dad to our son even though I know it wasn’t for long. I know given the chance you would’ve been a great dad to our Ronnie and I will remind him of you every day, as will all his brothers and sisters!

“He’s going to be so loved and protected. My heart’s broken. I love you Matt.”

An online fundraiser has been set up by Mr Collins’s step-sister, Debbi Brett, to help cover the costs of his funeral, with almost £4,000 donated already.

She says the tragedy in North Foreland on Wednesday has devastated his loved ones.

“As you can imagine it has left a family heartbroken,” she said.

“Matthew was a well-loved son, dad, grandad and brother. He has six beautiful children and three beautiful grandchildren.

“He was the most loving, caring gentleman and was loved by many.

“As you can imagine this has come as a massive shock and was unexpected so I’m asking if we could all pull together and give Matt the best send-off that he deserves.

“Any funds raised will help pay towards his funeral cost, and if there is any left over it will be split between his babies to give them some support.

“He was the most loving, caring gentleman and was loved by many….”

“We would like to say a massive thank you for all the donations so far. It’s taken a huge pressure off Matthew’s family.”

Matthew leaves behind his six children, Ronnie, Lacey, Jazmine, Junior, Melody and Honey, as well as three grandchildren, Mabel, Dottie and Montana.

He will also be missed by his three brothers, Jamie, Tobias and Bobby, and his stepdad Henry.

The circumstances of Matthew’s death remain unclear, but his family say they expect the results of his post-mortem examination today.