A much-loved husband described by friends as a “compassionate soul with the kindest heart” has tragically died aged just 40.

Dozens of touching tributes have been paid to talented writer Tim Collins following his sudden death.

Tim grew up in Kent - previously living in Kingsdown, near Deal - and attended Sir Roger Manwood’s Grammar School in Sandwich, then Dover Grammar School for Boys.

He studied for his degree in English literature at the University of Kent and then received his master’s degree in journalism from Kingston University.

He later worked as a journalist for KentOnline and its sister paper, the Kentish Express, in Ashford.

After leaving the Express, Tim moved to the capital and worked for MailOnline, before becoming a freelance writer.

Announcing his death to friends, his devastated widow, Alexandra, wrote: “It breaks my heart to say that on Sunday, April 13, my beautiful husband Tim passed away.

“He was deeply loved, and always will be.”

The cause of Tim’s death is not yet known.

Many tributes have been paid to him on social media, with friends describing him as an “absolute gemstone of an individual”.

One said: “So, so sad to see this. He was one of the good ones. A gentleman, kind, funny and good company.”

Another said: “I can’t believe this, he was a lovely human being and I have good memories of our conversations. He will be missed. My condolences. May he rest in peace.”

A third wrote: “I consider Tim one of my oldest friends, from school and beyond.

“The last time I saw him in real life was on a train and I gave him the biggest hug. Now he’s gone.

“I send you all my best for coming to terms with this, and thank you for being close to, and helping maintain, this absolute gemstone of an individual.”

Another friend, and a former colleague of Tim, wrote: “I am so sorry, Alex. I worked with Tim for a little while. He was a shining light and a compassionate soul with the kindest heart.

“I’m so, so sad to read this. Sending you so much love, and to him too.”

Former KentOnline colleagues have fond memories of working with Tim, who was based at the Kentish Express office from 2011 to 2014.

KM Group managing editor Robert Barman, the former editor of the Express, said: “Tim was a popular member of our reporting team for three years.

“He had a rare ability to tackle complex subjects in an understandable way for readers, as well as a fantastic sense of humour.

“He was well-liked both by colleagues and the many contacts he built around Ashford and elsewhere during his time with us.

“All those who worked with Tim remember him fondly and have expressed their shock and sadness at this news.

“We send our deepest condolences to his family.”

Another former colleague, Tricia Jamieson, said: “I worked with Tim on the Kentish Express in Ashford when he started his career. They were happy days.”

Tim married Alexandra in Hampstead, north London, on May 28, 2022.

The couple were together for eight years and lived in Mill Hill, a suburb in the north west of the capital.

A celebration of his life will be held at the couple’s wedding venue, St Stephen’s Church in Rosslyn Hill, Hampstead, from 1pm on Saturday (May 3).

Those wishing to pay their respects are invited to “come as you are, in colour and in comfort”.