Student from Staffordshire found dead at university halls

Education chiefs at Kent University have sent out an email to students informing them of the tragic death of Adam Myatt, a first-year social sciences student from the county.

It comes after crews were called out to Liberty Quays, in Blake Avenue, off Pier Road, Gillingham, shortly before 4pm on Wednesday after the 19-year-old's body was found.

An email sent out to students by Phil Hubbard, head of school at the University, reads: "Yesterday we were notified that one of our first year BSc Social Sciences students, Adam Myatt, was found dead in his room at Liberty Quays.

"It is believed he died of natural causes.

"His parents have been informed and his flatmates are being supported by the Medway Master, Jane Glew.

This is extremely upsetting news and I am sure that all of us, whether we knew Adam or not, will wish to send our condolences to Adam's family and in due course we will arrange for flowers and card to be sent to his family in Staffordshire so that those who wish to express their sympathy can do so.

"I realise that those of you who did know Adam will be greatly affected by this news and may feel it difficult to engage with your studies at this time.

"I would like to remind you that the University is able to offer counselling and support for those who need it through the Student Wellbeing Team and encourage you to speak to your academic advisor if you want advice on other services you can access at a difficult time like this."

Police in the area have confirmed that the death is not being treated as suspicious.

A spokesman for Kent Police saying: "Kent Police was called at 3.53pm on Wednesday, October 12 to an address at Liberty Quays in Blake Avenue, Gillingham, following concern for the welfare of a man.

"Officers and Secamb attended and a 19-year-old-man was declared deceased at the scene.

"The death is not being treated as suspicious and next of kin have been informed.

"A report will be prepared for the coroner."

A spokesperson for the University of Kent said: "We can confirm the death of a male student at Liberty Quays on 12 October.

"He is believed to have died of natural causes.

"His parents have been informed and the University has offered its full support and counselling to his fellow residents and all those students and staff who knew him.

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very sad time."

Police initially said they were called out to help ambulance staff to a medical incident at the accommodation block at 3.53pm and said no offences had been reported.