A much-loved youth worker and “local legend” who inspired hundreds of young people has died.

Paul Southgate would spend 34 years at the Whitstable Youth and Sailing Centre (WYSC) passing on his passion for canoeing and kayaking to young people.

Mr Southgate was also well-known for his mobile mechanic business Call-A-Tune until the late 90s - with his “little red van” well-known by residents.

After retiring, he continued to run the Whitstable Canoe Club and still paddled with friends and family.

But the dad-of-five sadly died suddenly on March 13 aged 71.

His family paid tribute to the grandfather who, they say, was a “local legend” in Whitstable.

“Alongside youth work, Paul had an incredible passion for canoeing and kayaking,” his family explained.

“He started regular canoeing sessions from the WYSC where he developed many lifelong friends and colleagues, and taught hundreds if not thousands of people - young and old - to paddle.”

Born in Dulwich, Paul grew up in Peckham and worked in his dad’s garage where he learned mechanic skills.

He moved to Leicester in the 1970s, where he developed a “lasting love for youth work” and met his lifelong partner Ramila.

They moved into a family-owned holiday home later the same decade, where he would live for the rest of his life.

He put his previous skills as a mechanic to use and bought himself a minivan, launching Call-A-Tune.

Paul inspired hundreds of young people…

Paul also worked at the WYSC part-time and was involved in the club for 34 years.

His family added: “During his time there Paul inspired hundreds of young people.”

He took a full-time role as leader in charge at the club in 2000, which he held for 13 years before retiring.

But he continued to run the town’s canoe club - known as Whitstable Winter Wallys - until his death.

“Paul was well-known for his great sense of humour - and terrible jokes - and an incredible passion for music from all genres across every era,” his family said.

“He leaves behind his partner Ramila; five children, Matreya, Sabeena, Gautama, Kasana and Sangita; seven grandchildren; and many loyal and dear friends who miss him greatly.”

A celebration for Paul will be held on Sunday from 1pm at the Waterfront Club, Whitstable.