Lil’ Chris dies aged 24

Musician Lil’ Chris has passed away, it has been reported.

Chris Hardman first rose to fame on the second series of Channel 4’s Rock School back in 2006, before signing a record deal with RCA Records.

His debut single Checkin’ It Out peaked at Number 3 on the Official Singles Chart in 2006, with follow up Gettin’ Enough hitting Number 17.

Tributes have already begun pouring in for the young singer-songwriter:

So sad to hear about Lil Chris. He was such a genuinely sweet and funny guy, we had some awesome… https://t.co/qNQFdfwDlV

— Dougie Poynter (@DougiePoynter) March 24, 2015

Oh my god . Lil Chris . He was a regular guest on TMI. Always always such a polite lovely guy . That's so sad 😢

— caroline flack (@carolineflack1) March 24, 2015

Shocked and saddened to hear the news about Lil' Chris. He supported us a while back and was a little star and an awesome guy. #RIPChris

— Harry Judd (@mcflyharry) March 24, 2015

RIP Chris Hardman aka lil Chris :( only 24 years old so sad!

— Dynamo (@Dynamomagician) March 24, 2015

R.I.P @CJHardman ❤️ I loved you since I was a little girl, thoughts and prayers go out to your family, you'll be truly missed by everyone❤️

— Amelia Lily (@AmeliaLilyOffic) March 24, 2015

Can't believe the sad news about lil Chris. We worked with him a few years ago and he was a lovely young lad..taken too soon. Mark #ripchris

— Sam & Mark (@samandmarktv) March 24, 2015

Devastated to hear about @CJHardman My thoughts are with his family. We lost a talented dude! #RIPChris

— Danny Jones (@itsDannyJones) March 24, 2015

Chris . I will miss you . Your friendship and your talent ! Rest in peace . #RIPCJHardman

— James Bourne (@JamesBourne) March 24, 2015

Can't tell you how absolutely tragic it is to hear about Chris. Such a sweet, lovely dude. So shocked and sad. #RIPCJHardman

— Tom Fletcher (@tommcfly) March 24, 2015

Suffolk Police have confirmed they are not treating the death as suspicious.