The devastated family of a mother who died after giving birth have described her as a “bright, bubbly and kind” person who was fun to be around.

Former Archbishop’s pupil Kim Sampson suffered complications after son Albie was delivered by emergency caesarean at Margate’s QEQM Hospital on May 3.

The 29-year-old was rushed to King’s College Hospital in London, but tragically died on Tuesday morning.

The hairdresser, who worked at Len’s Barbers in Whitstable, lived in the town's Newton Road with her parents Yvette and Louis.

She leaves them behind, as well as newborn Albie, a three-year-old daughter, Jasmine, partner Luke Ilott, and brothers Daniel, 28, and 24-year-old Elliot.

Her heartbroken mother, who works in Sainsbury’s in Chestfield, says everyone is in shock at Kim’s sudden death.

She said: “She was very fit and healthy. We are devastated and want to know what happened.”

The family have said that while they cannot speculate on how Kim died, they are hoping a post-mortem examination and possibly an inquest into her death will shed some light.

Paying tribute to Kim, Mrs Sampson said: “She was bright, bubbly, kind and a fun person to be around.”

She also thanked well-wishers who had sent their condolences, adding: “Messages have been flooding in and we would like to thank everyone for their kind thoughts.”

Len Jones, of Len’s Barbers, worked with Kim for 10 years.

He said: “She was a lovely, beautiful girl and came to me at the age of 19. I remember the moment she asked me to be godfather to her daughter.

“She was a great friend and loyal - she had a heart of gold.

“She was a terrific person and a terrific barber. We are all devastated and I cannot imagine what the family are going through.”