Tributes are pouring in for Professor Paul Clough, an anthropology lecturer at the University of Malta, who died suddenly today.

“I have just heard the unexpected and sad news of the demise of our dear colleague Prof. Paul Clough. Paul was an engaged lecturer greatly loved by students. He was a much respected member of the academic community. We often met in the neighbourhood in St. Paul’s Bay, where he lived in the vicinity of my dad and where we often conversed on our common passion for dogs. I heard that he died doing what he loved, having a swim with his new buddy. Paul you will be greatly missed. Rest in Peace my friend,” said fellow lecturer Carmen Sammut.

In a Facebook post, the Faculty of Arts said it had lost a “pillar of dedication, loyalty, honesty, sincerity, above all, friendship”.

“The Faculty of Arts is bereaved. He was throughout his career the anchor to the study of anthropological studies, a head of department, a trade unionist, a friend. Paul was a trusted and trusty friend to many of us in the Faculty of Arts and beyond. We may find someone to replace his teaching, but we can never replace him. He is etched in our hearts. So long Paul. Wave at us.”

Other tributes have come in from other colleagues and former students.