A heartbroken brother has paid tribute to his “funny and lively ray of sunshine” sister who died in a town centre.

Chelsea Louise, 30, was found unresponsive in Ashford’s Lower High Street last month, prompting a huge police presence.

Despite the best efforts of the emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

Most of the town centre - between the junctions for Bank Street and Station Road - was cordoned off as officers carried out their investigation.

Police have since confirmed that while her death is “unexplained”, it is not being treated as suspicious.

Her devastated brother John Malthouse has confirmed the woman was his younger sister Chelsea.

The family have started a fundraiser to help pay for her funeral as she did not have life insurance.

Writing on GoFundMe, Mr Malthouse said: “I am the brother of the late Chelsea who passed away suddenly aged 30 recently in Ashford town centre.

“Our Chelsea was a daughter, sister and niece. She was a funny, lively ray of sunshine but sadly suffered from some terrible mental health issues.

“Chelsea was not insured and we as a family want to give her the send-off that she deserves.

“Thank you for taking the time to read this, and in advance our heartfelt thanks for any donations that you may wish to contribute.”

So far, £695 of a target of £2,000 has been raised.

Mr Malthouse also shared the fundraiser on social media, saying: “I have no words right now at all. I am beyond devastated.

“I cannot believe that I have lost my baby sister, my angel and best friend.

“Heaven has gained another angel. May you find peace in the arms of the angels. Fly high and soar great on the wings of the angels my darling.”

It sparked an outpouring of grief, with one well-wisher saying: “I’m so sorry for your loss. I’ve known Chelsea for years. She was so beautiful and a lovely friend.”

Another added: “I'm so sorry. God bless, beautiful lady.”

One commenter said: “So very sorry for your loss. May your sister rest in eternal peace.”

Floral tributes have been left under a tree by the benches outside Sports Direct in the town centre in memory of Chelsea and remain there today.

Police were first called to Lower High Street at 11.20pm on Thursday, January 18.

The town centre was cordoned off and remained so for much of the following day.

A spokesman for the ambulance service said: “Two ambulance crews and three single responder vehicles attended.

“Sadly despite the efforts of all those involved, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene.”

In a statement, Ashford Borough Council said it was “saddened to hear of this incident”.

“Our sympathies and condolences go to the relatives and friends of the woman found in the town centre,” the authority said.