Image copyright Ellie Bagshaw Image caption Matt Smith was found by friends at the Val Thorens resort

An Oxford student has died during a university ski trip in France.

Matt Smith, 22, was found by friends at the Val Thorens resort in the Alps on Sunday morning, the BBC understands.

The St John's College history undergraduate was attending the annual Oxford and Cambridge Varsity ski trip, which was first held in 1921.

Oxford University said: "We would like to express our deep sadness at the tragic death."

It added: "[We] send our condolences to his family and friends.

"While we await the findings of the official investigation we are offering support to students who may have been affected.

"Members of the college were invited to gather yesterday to remember him, and any member of the college who is particularly affected by this sad news has been encouraged to contact the chaplain or any member of the welfare team."

Image copyright Glen Tamkin Image caption Friends paid tribute to Matt Smith (r) on social media

Mr Smith's friend Glen Tamkin said on Facebook: "What we have once enjoyed, we can never lose - I love you so much man RIP."

His brother Harry wrote: "I love you so much, Matt. Rest well above the clouds."

Nuco Travel, which runs the week-long trip, told Cambridge University news site, Varsity: "Sadly one of our passengers passed away on Sunday."

Mr Smith was a former social secretary of the Oxford University Ski and Snowboard Club and president Alex Jelicic said members were "shocked" by news of his death.

"He has made a lasting impression on all who were lucky enough to know him personally," he said.

"He was well known for being a fun-loving, adventurous individual who brought good humour with him at all times.

"We are proud to have had him serve on our committee, and he will be sorely missed by all members of the club."

A spokeswoman for the Foreign Office said it was supporting the man's family and had made contact with local authorities.