FRIENDS and colleagues have paid tribute following the death of a popular Chelsea man.

Michael Beverley, 50, of Pond House, Pond Place, was found dead at the foot of the Dartrey Tower, on the World's End Estate, on December 11.

He was well-known by many people across the borough in his role as former board member of the Kensington and Chelsea Tenant Management Organisation (TMO).

Mr Beverley (pictured) initially become involved with the Tenants' Group in 1991, which became the TMO in 1996.

He became a member of the shadow board and later the TMO board until December 2008 when he retired from the role.

He was the TMO's longest-serving board member.

During his time on the board, he had many different roles as chairman and vice-chairman of committees, with a particular interest in diversity and equality.

Mr Beverley was also involved with the London Tenants Federation and Tenants and Residents Organisations of England (TAROE).

His friend, Julian Aubrey, former co-chairman of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) liaison group, said Mr Beverley would be sadly missed by many.

He added: "I first met Michael when I was invited to a Christmas dinner for the LGBT group held in Earl's Court many years ago.

"I sat next to him. He was gentle, funny and a good listener.

"I got to know him better over the following years. Michael was a very likeable man."

Karen Buck, MP for Regent's Park and Kensington North, also paid tribute to Mr Beverley.

She said: "I worked closely with Michael for many years and was deeply saddened by news of his death at such a young age.

"I always found him full of humour, interest and compassion, and he put so much effort into his community that his loss diminishes us all."

Robert Black, chief executive of the TMO, echoed their sentiments.

He said: "Michael will be greatly missed by the board and staff at the TMO and all those who knew him from across the borough.

"In Michael's own words from his farewell message to board members and staff when he stood down from the board last year: 'It has been a genuine privilege for me to serve the tenants and leaseholders of the Royal Borough for the past 18 years, and I hope that in some small way I have made a positive contribution through working with my colleagues on the board'."

Since his resignation from the board, Mr Beverley retained close links with the TMO and friendships with both colleagues on the board and members of staff.

Police confirmed are not treating his death as suspicious.