TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Westcliff pupil who died suddenly, aged 21.

More than 60 tributes were left on Facebook and Twitter yesterday morning after news of the death of former Westcliff High School for Boys’ pupil George Chiverton early on Sunday.

George, who lived in South Woodham Ferrers, was studying politics at Southampton University.

The death is not being treated as suspicious.

Westcliff High School headteacher Mike Skelly said George was so popular he was still in touch with younger pupils two years after leaving.

Mr Skelly said: “He was tremendously popular and was a young man brimming with potential who made an immense contribution, particularly through the extracurricular life of the school, where he was involved in debates and was one of the editors of the school magazine.

“George left in July 2012 and I understand he was in his third year of studies at university.

“But he still maintained contact with friends he made at the school and the wider community, so it has come as a terrible, terrible shock to us all.’’ Mr Skelly added: “It’s a very sad time and our hearts go out to George’s family.”

George had also worked at Marsh Farm, in South Woodham Ferrers.

Owner James Sinclair said George was an enthusiastic young man who brightened people’s days.

He said: “George had worked here for a good few years and I can’t believe such a young, intelligent and very funny guy has gone.

“I remember talking to him when I took over the farm two years ago and he had his life planned out, doing a politics degree, then going into politics.

I speak for the whole team in saying we are sad and deeply shocked.

“Our thoughts go out to the family.

We want to do anything we can to help.”

Former Marsh Farm worker Karen Latham left a similar tribute on George’s Facebook page.

She said: “From the moment you walked into your interview at Marsh Farm, George, you had us laughing.

“In fact, I don't think I have ever laughed that much in an interview before and you continued to make us laugh all the time we worked together.”

On Twitter, Liam Igoe (@LiamIgoe), referring to Westcliff High, said: “Says a lot that so many kids three years below are shocked.”

On Facebook, Bethany Grace Dunn said: “No words can express the shock and sadness felt by this devastating news.

“You never failed to makeme laugh and this is how I will always remember you.

“You will be greatly missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing you.”