Reality TV star and singer Lil' Chris has died aged 24 in his hometown of Lowestoft.

The diminutive pop star, real name Chris Hardman, shot to fame in Channel 4's Rock School after Kiss frontman Gene Simmons made him the lead singer of a student band.

Once the cameras had gone, he was offered a solo deal and went on to have a top five hit with Checkin' It Out in 2006.

Allan Dodgeon, who managed Chris for a year from 2013, said he was in "complete shock".

He said: "He was an outstanding talent and it was a pleasure to work with him. Our thoughts are with his friends and family."

A Suffolk Police spokeswoman said: "Police investigating the sudden death of a man in Lowestoft can confirm they are not treating it as suspicious.

"Officers received a call from the ambulance service on Monday 23 March at around 11:45am and attended an address in Union Road following a sudden death of a 24-year-old man.

"A post mortem examination is due to take place to establish the cause of death and a file will be passed to the coroner in due course and an inquest opened."

Among the famous fans paying tribute were magician Dynamo, who said: "RIP Chris Hardman aka lil Chris :( only 24 years old so sad!"

Caroline Flack, who met the star on children's show TMI, said: "Oh my god . Lil Chris . He was a regular guest on TMI. Always always such a polite lovely guy . That's so sad."