Pop star Carol Decker, lead singer of T'Pau, has paid tribute to a Kent fan who died after contracting Covid.

Dean Hollett, the brother of comedian and pantomime star Lloyd Hollett, was aged 50.

Mr Hollett said his brother passed away suddenly at his family home in Margate on Friday after becoming ill on Wednesday.

Paying tribute to Dean on Facebook, Carol Decker - whose band had a number one hit in 1987 with China In Your Hand - said: "I cannot believe I have to write this. It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our fan, friend and master of our FB.

"We'll miss you SO much and send our deepest condolences to your family and friends. Sleep well my friend and thank you."

The 50-year-old has been described as a beloved son, brother, brother-in-law, nephew, uncle, cousin and dear friend.

A statement from the family goes on to say: "As we still struggle to come to terms with this devastating news, funeral arrangements will be announced in due course."

It ends by quoting the words of T'Pau's 1987 song 'I Will Be With You'.

On his Twitter profile, Dean describes himself as a lover of 80s music and a big fan of Carol Decker - the lead singer of the band whose other hits include Heart and Soul and Secret Garden.

Latest figures show a rise in the number of people in hospital with Covid in Kent.

168 patients were being treated in the county on Wednesday, which is 20 more than the previous week.