Detectives in the Caribbean are investigating the ‘sudden’ and ‘tragic’ death of a former Wimbledon schoolboy.

The family of Oliver Gobat, 38, have paid tribute to their beloved son who was born in St Lucia but had dual nationality.

It has been widely reported that he was found dead in a burnt out Land Rover on Friday, April 25, on the island where he worked as a property developer.

Mr Gobat attended King’s College School in Wimbledon and his parents live in Esher.

A statement released by the family said: “The Gobat family are devastated by the sudden and tragic death of their son and brother Oliver on Friday, April 25 in St Lucia, the island where he was born and which he loved.

“We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of messages and love but we do need to grieve and we would ask for privacy at this time.

“There will be a Celebration of the Life of Oliver Gobat held in St Lucia for family and friends this Saturday, May 3 from 5pm and a memorial will be held in the UK in the near future with dates and details to follow.

Double Olympic decathlon gold medallist Daley Thompson paid a personal tribute to him on Twitter.

He said: “My love&thoughts go out to friends&family of Ollie Gobat. he was a gem& his family must have been so proud of him. RIP my friend.”

Mr Gobat was a talented cricketer and played for Surrey County Cricket Club’s under 15 team.

A Foreign and Commonwealth Office spokesman said: “We can confirm the death of a British national in St Lucia on April 25.

“We are providing consular assistance to the family at this difficult time.”