TRIBUTES have been paid to a talented teenage athlete who was found dead.

Max Windle from Horsham died on Thursday, January 28.

The 16-year-old student was a first year footballer at Crawley Town Foundation Academy.

Paying tribute to the teen on Twitter, the academy said: "Our programme was devastated to hear that one of our first year footballers, Max Windle, passed away after struggling from depression in recent months.

"Now more than ever, it’s vital that we look out for one another.

"Our love goes to all of Max’s family and friends."

Another Twitter user said the news was tragic and described Max as "a very good competitive swimmer".

At the inquest which was opened into the teen's death at Crawley Coroner's Court earlier today, the court heard the 16-year-old student was found on Thursday, January 28.

Emergency services were called but paramedics confirmed Max had died.

The full inquest is set to be heard on June 1.