THE brother of a young man who died after a fire at his flat said he has been overwhelmed by the “love and support” from people who knew him.

Joseph Arnold was rescued from a fire at his home in Spences Lane, Lewes, in the early hours of Monday, January 27.

The 29-year-old was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton where he died from his injuries.

His brother James Arnold said: “Words cannot express how we feel at the moment and how much he is already missed.

“We are also incredibly touched by the love and support that has been shown.

“We will let you all know details of remembrance celebrations as soon as arranged.

“Love you bro.”

Responding to a tribute online, one friend said: “ I can’t quite find the words but know that our thoughts are with you all. Rest easy Joe.”

Another wrote: “ Shocked and stunned to hear this news. I remember Joe being the type of guy to help you out even from when we were little kids at St Pancras.

“A top, top guy that I’ll remember very fondly. Love to the family.”

A third said: “Devastating news, Joe really helped me out through some tough times and was always a shoulder in times of need.

“Incredibly sad to hear the news – it really got to me this morning, top bloke and he will be missed by many. Love to all the family.”

Joe worked in environmental health at Lewes District Council.

They also paid tribute to Joe.

Julie Hickling, neighbourhood first manager at Lewes District and Eastbourne Borough Councils, said: “Joe was a popular, hardworking and respected member of the neighbourhood first team and is sorely missed by his colleagues.

“All the staff at Eastbourne and Lewes councils who knew him are shocked and deeply saddened at his death.

“Our thoughts are with his family.”

Last weekend, all Sussex Sunday League matches held a minute’s silence in memory of Joe.

His funeral is expected to take place towards the end of February.