"Our hearts are shattered".

That’s how the family of Martin Jepps has expressed its shock and grief over his death at the age of 28.

Martin, of Priory Gate Road, Dover, died suddenly and it has left his family struggling to raise funds for a funeral that befits the inspirational person he was.

“Martin was a beautiful person inside and out and lit up any room with his infectious smile,” his cousin Stacey Ewins wrote in a JustGiving page set up to raise funds for his funeral.

"Martin was such a caring and generous person and would always put others before himself.

A police spokesman confirmed Martin’s death and said: “We were called to an address in Priory Gate Road, Dover at 7.35pm on 16 June.

"The body of a man was discovered. His death is not deemed to be suspicious.”

His cousin, Stacey, from Folkestone said: “Martin was such a kind and caring young man.

“He will be sorely missed by so many, especially by his mother Melody, his brother Shane and his sister Amy.

“We would also like to thank everybody for their kind and generous donations without everybody’s help we wouldn’t be able to give Martin the send off that he truly deserves.

"He was a much loved son, brother, uncle, grandson, cousin and friend and will never be forgotten.”

Family friend of over a decade Cal Roberts says any money raised for his funeral appeal could not reflect the generosity of his spirit.

"Every penny Martin receives is a fraction of the debt owed to him, for his kindness and generosity in life,” he said.

"As we lost Martin at such a young age and completely unexpectedly, unfortunately we now have the added stress as to how we can get the money together for a funeral" - Stacey Ewins

“In death he’ll be remembered as a gentleman in every sense of the word.

"Always polite, always on hand to help. It’s humbling to see how many people’s lives he touched, and the way in which the community has come together to share their fondness of him.”

The JustGiving tribute written by Stacey continues: “No mother should ever have to bury their own child which is why we need to try and raise some money towards a funeral that my beautiful cousin really deserves.

“As we lost Martin at such a young age and completely unexpectedly, unfortunately we now have the added stress as to how we can get the money together for a funeral, so please, please if anyone can help no matter how big or small it will be greatly appreciated.”

The cause of death has not been released and an inquest is yet to be held, but the family issued a statement: “Anyone that knew Martin, knew what a caring, selfless and kind-hearted person he is.

"We are thankful for the love and continued support we have been shown since his passing.

“We are currently unable to divulge any further information, however we will issue a family statement in due course.

"We kindly ask that our privacy is respected at this very difficult time.”

The family’s JustGiving appeal is aiming to raise £3,000 to give Martin a “good send off”.

Donations have already reached £1,300 and Stacey wrote: “Thank you so much from the bottom of our shattered hearts.”

• To donate to the appeal visit: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/martinsmemory