Dentist found dead in surgery

The body of Aiden McHugh, 43, was found by his wife at The Albion Dental Practice, Albion Street, Brighton, after he failed to turn up for a family dinner at home.

He had been working late on paperwork at the surgery on Friday evening.

News of his death has stunned the 250 dentists in the city and his large patient list, which included sportsmen and people involved in the media and arts.

Mr McHugh also leaves behind four children. He had a large family house in Shirley Drive, Hove, and a thriving practice.

Fellow Brighton dentist Paddy Nayler, who has a practice in Elms Lea Avenue, Preston Park, said: "Everyone is very shocked and upset. He was an enthusiastic dentist, very much dedicated to the National Health Service. I met him on a course recently and he was his usual happy self."

A statement from the coroners' officers said: "The death is being treated as non suspicious. There will be an inquest."

One of his patients, writer Vanora Leigh, said: "This is a complete shock. He was a highly respected dentist who had a good rapport with his patients and would always greet you with a smile and a quip."

Pictures of Mr McHugh's family were displayed in the surgery, which was known for its relaxed and efficient operation.

He was keen on preventive dentistry and would demonstrate to people how they should clean their teeth during their regular check-ups.

Mr McHugh was known for his sense of humour. He once put a goat on his father's manicured lawn in nearby Upper Drive, Hove, as an April Fool's Day prank.

He was born in Brighton, and trained in Birmingham, qualifying as a dentist in 1984.

He opened his first practice in the Old Steine, Brighton, before moving to the Albion Street surgery, which now has two other partners.

The practice is continuing to operate, with Mr McHugh's patients being transferred to the other dentists.

His family said they did not want to say anything at this time, other than they had been inundated with messages of support.