Tributes are pouring in after the sudden death of Herne Bay Coastguard's station officer.

Gordon Sinclair, 51, died after collapsing during a training event at the coastguard station in Sea View Road.

The father-of-two, from Greenhill, had been a devoted search and rescue volunteer for 20 years.

Since news of his death last Sunday broke, dozens of people have paid tribute to him as an "inspirational leader" of the Herne Bay station.

Speaking on behalf of his family, Mr Sinclair's son Scott said: "His service with Her Majesty's Coastguard is something we are incredibly proud of. He worked tirelessly as a volunteer giving back to the community.

"The comments we have seen from those closely associated with him and from members of the public demonstrate his willingness to help others.

"But most importantly, he was a family man. A loving husband, and a caring dad. We will miss him dearly."

Matt Pavitt, coastguard area commander for the south east, said: "Gordon's constant professionalism and commitment to helping people was absolutely second to none. He's spent his life helping the coastguard, following in the footsteps of his dad who did the same before him. He's really shaped the whole coastguard rescue team in Herne Bay.

"He wasn't aware of it when he passed away, but he was to be awarded the coastguard's long service and good conduct medal, which is awarded to people who have completed 20 years of service."

Mr Pavitt confirmed the accolade will be posthumously awarded to Mr Sinclair, and passed to his family.

"Gordon joined as a volunteer at the age of 31, and worked through his time in the coastguard and became the station officer at Herne Bay two to three years ago," Mr Pavitt explained.

"He is well-known and respected throughout the coastguard community. The shock that's been felt is a real mark of the man he was.

"He was passionate about making sure the best was always done for the people of Herne Bay, and for the people he rescued. He was always right there, and ready to do his utmost for people in difficulty along the coast.

"His death was very unexpected. He was at the coastguard station in Seaview Road, and despite the efforts of the coastguard and ambulance crews, there was nothing that could be done."

Mr Sinclair's friends and fellow coastguard volunteers from around the country have taken to social media to express their sorrow.

James Crane wrote on Facebook: "It was a huge pleasure and an honour to work with Gordon. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him."

Michael McLaughlin added: "Rest in peace Gordon - a great man, an old school station officer, a true gentleman and an inspiration. May I offer our sincere condolences to his family."

Mr Sinclair leaves behind a wife and two sons.