The shock death of a popular 32-year-old found dead near a children’s playground has stunned his community.

Rikki Themistocleous, from Herne Bay, was found by police in a park off Plough Lane, Swalecliffe, on Tuesday evening.

He is believed to have taken his own life and detectives are not treating his death as suspicious.

Tributes to the maintenance worker, who was known to pals as Rikki Thermo and lived for a time in Rowland Drive, Greenhill, have poured in.

Friends on his Facebook page described him as someone who could brighten everyone’s day.

Luke Johnson posted: “I’m so sorry you’re gone mate. I hope you know how much we all thought of you, you were the brightest part of my day whenever I saw you.

"Happy days everyday for you now. RIP Rikki, I will miss you x.”

Grant Dickinson wrote: “Rikki bruv, I don’t know what has happened. Love you though. Love to your family. Xxx”

Ashley Leggatt, also paid tribute, writing: “Rest in peace my friend forever and always in our hearts xxx.”

“Rest in peace my friend forever and always in our hearts xxx” - Ashley Leggatt

While Jodie Eastwood added: “R.I.P. Rikki Thermo thoughts are with your family, such tragically sad news can’t actually believe this, bye thermo xxx.”

Police confirmed they were called to Plough Lane at 9.25pm to reports of concern for a man.

Former Frank Montgomery pupil and car fanatic Mr Themistocleous was pronounced dead at the scene.

He had worked for Park Holidays UK, which owned the nearby Seaview caravan park.

Neighbours spoke of their shock at his death.

One, who asked not to be named, said: “We have all been left in shock. Nothing like this has ever happened around here before.

“The police were here yesterday and people were hysterical. We just couldn’t believe what was happening.”

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