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Students have paid tribute to a Huddersfield University lecturer who has been described as an "incredible educator" with a passion for his topics.

Dr Amir Saeed was a senior lecturer in journalism and media who joined the University in 2014.

He taught modules in media theory, sport, PR and music and had written about race, racism and Islamophobia in the media.

Students and former students paid tribute to Dr Saeed on social media.

In an email to staff Professor Cornell Sandvoss, Head of Department (Media, Journalism and Film), wrote: "It is with great sorrow that I write to you to inform you of the passing of our friend and colleague, Dr Amir Saeed.

"Amir was an exceptionally passionate and compassionate educator and researcher. He was a tireless campaigner against racism and islamophobia, challenging patterns and structures of injustice and inequality.

"Like Mohammed Ali, of whom he was a great admirer, Amir sought to inspire his students, his friends and his colleagues to fight for a kinder, more inclusive, better world.

"I know that his proudest professional moments stemmed from those occasions when he knew had been an inspiration and role model to students, especially students from a minority background.

"There is, I think, no better way for us to honour Amir’s memory than to take these values to our hearts and continue this struggle. Amir will be greatly missed by all of us as a friend, as a lecturer, as a critical thinker, as a proud Glaswegian, a passionate Celtic supporter and in all the other important roles he had to many of us.

"The Department will make a Book of Remembrance available in the foyer of the Journalism and Media Building for those of you who wish to share their thoughts and memories."

The letter says that the university will provide support for anyone affected by his death.

Dozens paid tribute on social media.

Kieran Holly wrote: "Shocked and extremely saddened at the passing of Dr Amir Saeed. An incredible educator with strong passion for his topics.

"In the short time I've had you as my lecturer, you have made an unprecedented impact on my education and the way I view the world."

Huddersfield graduate Molly Marrison tweeted: "Absolutely shocked and gutted to hear of the passing of my former leader and dissertation supervisor Amir Saeed at Huddersfield Uni.

"Such a beautiful hearted, caring person who helped me out so much throughout final year. Thoughts are with his family and friends."

Shaun Anderson added: "Dr Amir Saeed's passion was unmatched compared to most others who taught me.

'A fantastic lecturer and a passionate man in life. He will be missed'

"His seminars on music and race relations at Huddersfield University still stick to me because of his character and demeanour. The news of his passing is truly saddening and I feel we've lost a great educator."

Student Dan Benn recalled Dr Saeed's passion for both Elvis Presley and Muhammed Ali which he called "inspiring".

Journalism student Ollie Hopewell tweeted: "Rest in peace Dr Amir Saeed, a fantastic lecturer and a passionate man in life. He will be missed."

Sports writer Craig Bratt said he was saddened by the news, adding: "He was a real character - none more so than when I walked into one of his classes with a Rangers shirt on. Little did I know he was a huge Celtic fan. He will be hugely missed at Huddersfield University."

A spokesman for Huddersfield University Cricket Club (HUCC) said: "The club are devastated to hear of the passing of Huddersfield University lecturer Dr Amir Saeed.

"A number of HUCC lads, both past and present have been taught by Amir and all would say he played an instrumental part in their time at the University. Rest in peace, Amir."

Sports journalism graduate Danny Senior tweeted: "Absolutely gutted to hear that Huddersfield University lecturer Amir Saeed has passed away.

"A brilliant lecturer who made learning engaging and enjoyable, and a thoroughly decent bloke who you could always have a laugh with. One of the good guys."

Charlie Edmondson called Dr Saeed a "real character" while Javaid Ali said he was a "true legend" who strove to help everyone.

Sports journalism graduate Alex Robinson described Dr Saeed a "larger than life character" and someone who made University enjoyable.

Dr Saeed's profile on the University website describes him as a senior lecturer in media studies and former programme leader of BA Media, Culture and Communication at Sunderland University.