MYSTERY surrounds the sudden death of the man in charge of mental health services across the south.

It comes as tributes have been paid to 36-year-old James Barton, who was found not breathing by paramedics in the early hours of the morning.

Despite the best efforts of medics he could not be saved and he died later in hospital.

Sussex police confirmed they have launched an investigation into his death at a house in Bognor Regis but would not reveal details of how he died.

However officers are not treating his death as suspicious. Mr Barton’s shock death has stunned friends and colleagues.

The Daily Echo understands he went out on a work call out on the Sunday evening before he was found dead.

But Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, where he was director of mental health, learning and disabilities, says they are not aware of any incidents taking place.

Earlier that day he had attended Riverside Family Church in Southampton, where he had been part of the leadership team since 1999.

He was a well-known figure in the Northam area of the city for his work with community groups.

According to Mr Barton’s online work biography, he had worked within mental health services across the NHS for more than ten years.

Neil Maddock, a friend of Mr Barton and fellow Riverside Family Church member, said: “We don’t know a great deal but he died between Sunday evening and Monday morning.

“It has come as a shock. We saw him on Sunday morning at church, and he was a well-known member.

“It’s a difficult time for everyone. It’s a huge shock for all involved and not something we expected.”

Staff who worked with Mr Barton have been offered support by Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust following his death.

Katrina Percy, chief executive of Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: “James’s sudden and unexpected death came as a dreadful shock to his friends and colleagues in our organisation, and across the NHS and public sector where he had made such an impact.

“Our thoughts are with James’s family and we continue to offer our support and deep condolences.

“During his time with us, James made a significant and lasting impression, both on services he led and the people with whom he connected.

“Whether working at a local or national level, James’s passion for making things better for people who use or work in our services was clear in every conversation and every decision.

“A true ‘people person’, James relished any opportunity to meet with colleagues, people who use services, or anyone with an interest in health and social care.

“His straightforward, genuine manner, infectious enthusiasm and ability to put himself in the shoes of the most vulnerable helped him to connect with people at all levels and from all walks of life.

“James is deeply missed and fondly remembered by his friends here at Southern Health.”

A spokesman for Sussex police said that officers were called to an address in The Parade, Bognor Regis shortly before 5.30am on February 2, where a man had been found “not breathing”.

Mr Barton’s funeral will be held at Riverside Family Church on Thursday at 11am.