A Brighton cyclist who fell to his death in the French Alps has been described as “a true gentleman, raconteur and wit.”

Richard Castle fell more than 300ft while on holiday in the mountain range.

The former Brighton University maths lecturer had been cycling alone in Chamonix-Mont Blanc before the accident on Friday.

The news has shocked colleagues, many of whom taught with him before his retirement last year.

Dr John Taylor, head of the school of computing, mathematical and information sciences, said: "We at the university are deeply saddened and our hearts go out to his family.

“He was an exceptionally gifted and inspiring teacher and was well respected by his former colleagues and students alike."

Friends have been paying tribute to the 60-year-old, who listed playing the accordion, backgammon and woodworking among his interests.

David Morris, of Brisbane, Australia said: “Richard was a genuine larger-than-life character, a true English gentleman, raconteur and wit.

“I had the privilege to count him as a close friend, a friendship that has bridged a vast distance in recent years.

“We all loved his quirky mannerisms and are devastated by the tragedy of his premature death.

“Richard, thank you for the days. The light of life will be forever dimmer.”

Dave McNair, of Brighton Backgammon Club, said: “I only found out yesterday and it was a real shock.

“Richard was a regular member of our club and we’re going to miss him.

“He was well liked and always pleasant company. Richard, you were one of a kind.”

Mr Castle, 60, of Brighton, was on a two-week adventure trip with nine friends from the Brighton Explorers Club.

He had been a member of the group for 16 years.

Mr Castle was last seen when he hired a bike on Friday morning to go cycling along the Balcon Nord track.

The alarm was raised when French holidaymakers spotted his bike in tree tops near the popular mountain cycle and walking trail.

A search by helicopter located his body 330ft below the track.

A post-mortem into the causes of his death was carried out on Saturday.

The results are still not known.

Leave your tributes below.