A popular vet and animal campaigner who looked after pets across Whitstable for more than 40 years was found dead in his surgery, it has emerged.

Roger Baker was discovered at his practice in Cromwell Road on Saturday. He was 66. His family are waiting to establish how he died.

His death has triggered an outpouring of grief across Whitstable where he remained active both at work and socially.

Born and bred in Whitstable he opened his practice at his parents home in Joy Lane in 1973 shortly after he qualified from the Royal Veterinary College.

Three years later he relocated to Cromwell Road where he remains to this day.

Outside of work he was once the chairman of the Friends of Prospect Field and also served as president of Whitstable Rotary Club.

President Andrew Gough paid tribute to Mr Baker as a “dedicated” rotarian who was awarded the highest honour available following years of service.

He said: “Roger had been a member of the Whitstable Rotary club for several years and was a past President.

“He worked extremely hard and enthusiastically for the club arranging several events including the pantomime horse derbies on Tankerton Slopes.

“In recognition of his dedication the club awarded him a Paul Harris Fellowship which is a mark of excellence and outstanding service.

“Although over the last few years, for personal reasons, he could not continue as a member, he still remained a good friend of the club and recently helped at our Hounds for Heroes Dog Walk.

“He will be much missed by all members and those who knew him and our thoughts are with his family at this very sad time.”

In addition to his work, Roger also took an active interest in animal welfare serving as vice-chairman of Conservative Animal Welfare where he helped introduce the Pet Passport Scheme.

He also became involved with helping animal charities such as the Gambian Horse and Donkey Trust which he visited along with wife Georgina in 2008.

He is survived by his wife and three children James, Chris and Elizabeth.