A “bright and popular” journalism student has been found dead in his flat aged 29.

Tributes have been paid to Jamie McDougall, left, who was studying sports journalism at Middlesbrough’s Teesside University and died suddenly at his home in Middlesbrough.

He spent most of his time on Teesside, but regularly returned to his native land to watch favourite football team Kilmarnock FC.

He was last seen watching football on TV on Saturday evening when his flatmate left to work a nightshift.  In the morning when his flatmate returned he found Jamie in the same spot.

Jamie, who was in the final year of his degree, also spent time reporting at the Teesside Gazette while on work experience.

Professor Mark Simpson, pro vice-chancellor at Teesside University , said: “Jamie was a bright and popular student who was in the final year of his BA (Hons) Journalism (Sports) degree with us.

“Our thoughts and sympathies are with his family and friends at this difficult time.

“We are liaising with the appropriate authorities and are providing counselling and support services to students, staff and the wider university community.”

Jamie commentated on Kilmarnock games regularly for Ayr Hospital Radio and also founded a podcast for fans of the club called ‘One Team in Ayrshire’.

His friend Russell Abercrombie said: “Jamie was a great friend and a lovely person who adored everything about Kilmarnock FC. He will be greatly missed.”