Tributes have been paid to an "inspiring" university lecturer who has been described as a "tour de force" after the news of his death was announced. 

Professor Ken Plummer began teaching at the University of Essex in 1975 to to teach social psychology and the sociology of deviance. 

He died on November 4, a spokesman for the University of Essex has said.

The 76-year-old was a lecturer and taught introductory sociology for 18 years at the university, based in Colchester.

In retirement he continued to write at a prolific rate and maintained close links with academic colleagues and students.

His more recent books include a collection celebrating 50 years of Essex sociology in Imaginations (2015).

Head of the Department of Sociology, Professor Pamela Cox, said: “We are extremely saddened to share the news of the death of Ken Plummer.

"Ken was a tour de force - an inspiring teacher, writer, supervisor, mentor and friend.

"He taught in our department for over thirty years and pioneered the sociological study of deviance, sexualities, intimacy, citizenship and much more.

"Ken took early retirement in 2005 following a serious illness but continued to publish and present in the UK and around the world. He will be sorely missed by so many people.

"We will be sharing ways to mark and celebrate Ken’s life in the coming days.”

John Marshall, the first editor of Gay Times, said: "I feel privileged to have known Ken who played a pivotal role in my own life and remained a lifelong friend."

Christian Klesse, who was taught by Prof Plummer, said: "Ken will be missed by so many people.

"Ken was an exceptional personality, curious, inquisitive, frank, principled, strong-willed, smart, knowledgeable, enthusiastic, empathetic, joyful, and – despite all his achievements as a great scholar, very modest.

"His death is an immense loss for the discipline of sociology, and for LGBTQIA+ studies, to which he has contributed a massive and pioneering stimulus."