STUDENTS and staff at the University of York have paid tribute to a popular former student who has died in a skiing accident.

Thomas Lynch, who graduated last summer, died when he fell and collided with a snow cannon - which pumps fresh snow on to a run - in the French resort of Val d'Isere earlier this week.

Students’ Union president Tim Ellis said students had learned of Tom’s death with great sadness, saying: “He was an extremely popular student during his time here and will be sorely missed by many.

"His contribution to campus life, in particular Langwith College will not be forgotten.”

He revealed that messages had been left in the student’s memory in the common room. One said: “You brought so many smiles to so many people. Thank you for the good times.”

Another said: “Lynchy, you defined what Langwith is all about, friendship. It was always a lovely part of my week, hanging out with you. You could honestly say you lived your life to its limits.” A third said: “You were one of the best and truest friends I ever had. My life was so much brighter with you in it than it will be now you’re gone. Rest in peace, buddy.”

Professor Andrew Jones, Head of the Department of Economics and Related Studies, said staff had been saddened to hear of Thomas’ death. “Thomas graduated with honours in Economics last summer,” he said. “Our thoughts are with his family at this distressing time."

Thomas’ father, Brendan Lynch, told his local newspaper, the Leicester Mercury, that the family was struggling to come to terms with the news of his death.

He said Thomas had been ‘our ray of sunshine and, come any situation, had the most joyous smile.’ A spokesman for police in Val d'Isere said a young British skier had been coming down the piste when he lost control, adding: "We don't know the speed he was going or what caused him to lose control. We are interviewing the friends he was with and other witnesses."