A schizophrenic who died after a 100ft cliff fall was writing a film script about the illness.

Thomas Elliott, 29, struggled with the affliction for ten years and wanted to raise public awareness.

It is thought he deliberately threw himself down the cliff at the south end of the Cuilfail Tunnel at Lewes on Friday.

In a moving tribute, his parents described their son as a "lovely person".

Charlie and Sue Elliott, from Lewes, said: "Thomas had lived in Lewes since he was eight years old with us and his younger brother."

He attended Wallands and Priory schools in Lewes and, despite the beginnings of the illness, he obtained good A-levels and attended a term at Kent University.

They said Thomas's condition gradually deteriorated and he became so ill he spent several periods in hospital.

They said: "He tried all the time to live independently in the community.

"He was very interested in photography and films, taking courses at the local college and university.

"He really wanted to explain to everyday people what it was like to live with schizophrenia.

"In his last few years he embarked upon a major project which involved the writing of a film script.

"He dearly hoped it would be made into a film, thus achieving his aim of raising awareness of the condition of schizophrenia and its effect on the individual.

"It is part of the nature of the illness to experience alienation, isolation and perceived rejection by the community.

"In the end, the long struggle and lack of improvement in his condition led him to take a brave and considered decision.

"He was an affectionate, sweet and lovely person who was much loved and will be much missed."

Thomas's parents urged people to find out more about schizophrenia.

They said: "We would be grateful if people could visit the website of the charity Rethink at www.rethink.org and, if they wish, make a donation in his memory."

Thomas, who lived in Baxter Road, Lewes, was pronounced dead at the scene near the tunnel by paramedics and firefighters who tried to save him.

Police said they were not treating the death as suspicious.

The death has been referred to a coroner and inquiries are continuing. An inquest will be held.