A much-loved shopkeeper has been described as a “real character” who would help anyone following his shock death.

Floral tributes have been laid outside Jason Down’s business, Allsorts tools and DIY, in Deal High Street.

A notice on the front of the store reads: “We are sorry to inform you of Jason’s passing.”

Mr Down was a stalwart of the community, with neighbouring traders even using his shop for equipment for work on their own businesses.

By Saturday, news had filtered through to them about his death, which is thought to have been sudden.

Sharon Friend, from the Merrygardens florists a few doors away, said: “These are not just shops, this is a community and the customers become your friends.

“Jason’s shop was a little Aladdin’s cave and you could get anything you needed there in terms of hardware.

“He was a lovely man and always so helpful. This is such as shock. It shows that life is so fragile.”

Arno Karson, of the Arno & Co grocers, said: “He was a real character and so vibrant.

“He always had something funny to say.

“He never missed a day of work and his shop was a treasure trove.”

Emma Lee, of the Barkened homewares store said Mr Down’s shop was a “staple of the area” and “had everything”.

“He was just so Deal as we knew it, born and bred...”

She added: “It was as good as B&Q, if not better.

“Independent businesses like his have helped the high street thrive.”

Caroline Yates, of the Will and Yates gallery, has traded next food to Allsorts for the last six years.

She said of Mr Down: “He would look after parcels for me when they were delivered and I wasn't there. He would help hang paintings for us.

“His shop was full of the tiniest fixtures and fittings, which was really helpful to us.”

Kent Sadler said: “I always tried to buy from him – a genuine local shop stocking so many goodies and always available for advice or, if not busy, a chat.

“This is very, very sad news.”

Kevin Baker, who went to school with Mr Down, wrote: “RIP mate - it was a pleasure to have known you.”

Angie Milliner said: “He was just so Deal as we knew it, born and bred.”

Richard Porter said he “always enjoyed my visits to this wonderful little emporium” and “chewing the fat with Jason”.

He added: “He always had a ‘hello’ if I was just walking past the shop too. A very sad loss. RIP Jason.”

Symeon Marjel posted: “Gone far too soon. Such a good chinwag to be had with Jason. And always had what you needed at a fair price. Gutted for his family and mates.”