Friends of a student found dead in a Canterbury house have told of their shock.

Former Rochester Math pupil Robert Chavda, 21, who was studying at Canterbury Christ Church University, died at an address in Sussex Avenue on Saturday, January 11.

Officers were called to the scene at 11.20am, but he was pronounced dead by paramedics.

Police have not revealed how he died, but say they are not treating the death as suspicious.

Mr Chavda’s friend Dan McCourt, who he is thought to have shared student digs with in Canterbury, posted a picture of them together on Facebook, writing: “Rob Chavda, you were my best friend, and I'll never forget the many memories we shared together through uni and school.

“You never failed to make me smile or cheer me up. I'm guna miss you dude.”

Another friend Ebony Rigg said on Twitter: “This has been the worst few days I've ever had, but I feel incredibly lucky for every single wonderful person supporting each other.

“I can't stop dreaming about you Rob. I suppose at least I still have you making me laugh in a way.”

The university’s student union is collecting donations for Mr Chavda’s family and has buckets at the student union bar and Jolly Sailor pub in Canterbury.

An organiser said: “All donations will go towards the support of Rob’s family at such a difficult time.

“Any donation at all will be greatly appreciated.

“The CCCU Student Union have also agreed to match any funds that we raise.”

Police spokesman Jon Green confirmed: “Police were called to an address in Sussex Avenue, Canterbury, at 11.20 am on Saturday, January 11, by ambulance personnel following the discovery of the body of a 21-year-old man.

“Police are not treating his death as suspicious.”

Rochester Math School deputy head teacher Chris Morris said he was in contact with Mr Chavda's family.