Dr David Swaine, 42, who practised at the School Hill Surgery in Lewes, died on Wednesday last week at Beverley Park Level Crossing near Hull.

A inquest will be held into his death. A coroner's officer confirmed it was not being treated as suspicous.

Dr Elizabeth Lamb, a partner at School Hill Surgery where Dr Swaine worked for almost 11 years, said: 'As a doctor, David had outstanding communication skills and sensitivity, and he cared deeply about his colleagues, patients, family and friends.

'His loss is a tragedy for us all and everyone in the practice is devastated and shocked.

'We realise that he touched the hearts of many people, that he will be sadly missed and that our grief will be shared by the many people who knew him.'

Staff at the practice said he was regarded as a great listener by patients and staff who valued his concern for their welfare.

A book of condolence has been opened at the surgery.

Dr Swaine graduated from the Royal Free Hospital in London and took up General Practice in 1995.

He joined School Hill Surgery in August 1997 and his main areas of professional interest included epilepsy, mental health and paediatrics.

He enjoyed spending time with his family, cycling, swimming and history.

He is survived by a wife and two children.

Tributes can be left below by using the comment facility or emailed to: sussex.express@sussexnewspapers.co.uk


Tributes to Dr David Swaine:

It was with great sadness that today I learnt of the death of Doctor Swain of the School Hill Surgery Lewes. The tragedy of his death at such a young age and the sadness that it leaves for those who new him in immeasurable. Dr. Swain was unquestionably a very fine doctor but beyond his knowledge of illness and injury there lay an intuitive kindness and respect with which he treated his patients. The loss of this fine doctor and kind man must be an almost unbearable burden to his family, friends and colleagues at the School Hill Surgery and it is as a testament of the professionalism of the staff at the surgery that they continue to work in the same way through this tragedy. Dr. Swain was one of Lewes's finest sons and he shall be greatly missed.
Jim