A communications officer at Medway Council has died after apparently taking his own life.

Owen Lynch, 39, worked in the authority's communications department at its Gun Wharf headquarters in Chatham.

Stunned staff have been informed about his death and have paid tribute to the popular colleague, who was found dead at his home is Whimbrel Way, Chatham.

Originally from Glasgow, Mr Lynch was an internal communications officer and had been working for the council for nine years.

The father-of-one had previously worked in adult social care and human resources.

An inquest was opened and adjourned today when the cause of death, last Thursday, was given as suspension.

Stephanie Goad, the council's assistant director, said: "Owen was one of the most popular members of staff within Medway Council and it is terribly sad that he passed away last week.

"Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones. Owen had worked in many areas of the council and had a great number of friends across the whole organisation, so the news that he is no longer with us is very distressing."

She added: "Owen had recently been taking a hypnotherapy course outside of work and had been planning to start a new career in this area and it is very sad that he was unable to realise this ambition by following this new venture in his life.

"The council has started a collection among staff for Owen and we want to use this to arrange something that will provide a fitting memory for him."

Mr Lynch leaves a partner and daughter.