Scores of people have paid tribute to a 29-year-old who drowned in a rip tide while attending a Full Moon Party in Thailand.

Former University of Brighton student Alex Wyithe, who was originally from Crawley but lived in Horsham, died on March 16.

In the days leading up to his death Mr Wyithe spoke of his excitement about doing incredibly well at his degree and the prospect of attending a Full Moon Party.

But tragedy struck and his brother Anthony Wyithe said on Facebook: “Sadly Alex passed away late last night or early this morning in Koh Pang Yeng Full Moon Party.”

The brothers’ cousin Scott Parker added: “I don't know all the details but he was swimming and got caught in a rip tide, he was pulled from the water but was unable to be revived.

“We are all feeling devastated and shocked of this tragic loss.

“It is obvious from the amount of tributes there are a lot of people out there who are too.” 

Describing him as a “great guy”, he said: “Missing you already cuz.”

Other people also paid tribute to Mr Wyithe. Cleo Hennis-Boulis said: “So young taken from us. He was my landlord few years ago and was such a laugh, more a friend than a landlord.

“My wishes and thoughts go out to his mum dad [who] are so lovely too and of course the rest of the family.”

Rachael Brown added: “I will remember you forever as a person with an unbelievably kind heart and always smiling.

“I remember meeting u when we both worked at Barclay Card and we hit it of straight away always laughing and joking .

“You borrowed my makeup a glitter for a party you went to.

“We lost contact after we left but recently were reunited when you walked into my place of work and we were so happy to see each other again.”

Jenna Gander said: “I was lucky enough to spend time with Alex while at uni.

“Alex was always smiling (gorgeous and cheeky) always had kind words and a supportive hand.”

Simon Bennett said: “I cannot believe this has happened. I spoke to Alex less than a week ago and he was telling me that he was having such a great time with some great people. I just goes to show how cruel live can be and how suddenly it can be taken from you.”

Shellbelle Brown added: “I have known Alex for many years and spoke to him not long ago at his work for ages. He was such an enthusiastic and pleasant chap and his untimely death is just devastating.”

Benjamin Dawson Been looking through photos half the night remembering all the things we used to get up to. Uni, nights out, meals round mine or out for wine/cocktails with me n my wife. It just won't sink in what's happened. When I struggled at uni u gave me motivation ‘cause you were always so laid back and happy and smiling.”

The Foreign Office confirmed they were aware of the death of a British national.

Would you like to pay tribute to Mr Wyithe? Email anna.roberts@theargus.co.uk or call 01273 544 539.