The family of a Kent Sea Cadet who fell 30ft to his death from a ship's rigging have spoken of their horror today.

Jonathan Martin, 14, from Shadoxhurst, was stowing the sail on the Sea Cadets' flagship TS Royalist when he plunged into the water.

The boat had been taking part in celebrations in the Solent to mark the movement's 150th anniversary.

Today, in a statement issued by Hampshire Police the teenager's family said: "Jonathan was a wonderful son and grandson who tragically died whilst doing something that he loved.

"He was a popular young man who will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

"We ask that the family are given space and time to come to the terms with their loss."

Jonathan was one of 19 cadets on board for a week-long excercise and was bringing in the sails when the incident happened in Stokes Bay near Gosport in Hampshire.

Jonathan, reported to be a member of Ashford Sea Cadets, was airlifted to hospital but died.

The Sea Cadets are working with the Maritime Accident Investigation Branch to establish what happened.

There were reportedly 10 staff onboard the brig with the youngsters, who were aged 13 and 18.

In a statement issued by the Marine Society and Sea Cadets the charity said: "The protection and safeguarding of young people is of paramount importance to the charity, and we take our duty of care very seriously.

"TS Royalist is staffed by experienced and qualified crew, and this tragic fatality is the first the ship has experienced since she was commissioned in 1971.

"Our thoughts are with the young cadet's family at this distressing and painful time.

"The charity is now working with the Maritime Accident Investigation Branch to establish the full details of what happened, and offering every assistance to the local authorities and police."