Tributes have poured in to a much-loved shopkeeper and dad-of-two following his sudden death, aged 50.

Sriskanthavel Kuhatherrshan, the well-known owner of Jay Stores in Faversham, died unexpectedly at home.

His death has sparked an outpouring of grief from across the community, with many leaving floral tributes and candles outside the shop he has run for almost a decade.

Mr Kuhatherrshan - known to many as Kuhan, Tashy, and “boss man” - is remembered as “a lovely, kind man” and “the most amazing father”.

Born and raised in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, he spent time living in Lewisham before moving to Faversham in 2012 with his wife, Geetha, and his children Luckshica, now 18, and Visvajit, 16.

He took over Jay Stores, and has run the Blaxland Close convenience shop ever since, building a loyal following of customers.

Paying tribute to her father, Luckshica said: “My dad was a great man, who was loved not only by friends and family but by the whole community.

“He was the most amazing father both me and my brother could ask for, and an incredible husband to my mum.

“I cannot describe how important my father was to us all, and what a powerful influence he continues to be.

“We’ll continue to honour him and treasure the memories we have with him.

“We love and miss you Appa.”

Mr Kuhatherrshan enjoyed spending time with his family, along with gardening, and playing cricket with his cousins.

His best friend, Michael Bedford, said: “Kuhan was a sincere man who believed in helping people in his community regardless.

“He ran his shop like clockwork, always happy to see all and will be greatly missed by many. He was a hero for many who struggled and a true friend to all.”

Mr Kuhatherrshan’s death last Sunday has sparked an outpouring of grief from across the community.

Customers have left flowers outside Jay Stores, and have taken to social media to pay tribute to him as “a lovely, kind man who will be much missed”.

One woman wrote: “So upset to hear that Kuhan has passed - such a lovely man with a welcoming smile.”

Another man shared a memory of Mr Kuhatherrshan's kindness.

During a visit to Jay Stores about six months ago, the customer had told his young son he could not buy him a Cbeebies magazine due to its price.

He recalled: “My little boy was really upset. Kuhan ran out just as I was strapping him in the car with the magazine and said ‘it’s on me’.

“He will be greatly missed by a lot of people, especially me and my little boy. My thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family.”

Mr Kuhatherrshan fell ill at his home on Saturday night. Paramedics were called, but he could not be saved.

His cause of death is yet to be determined.

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