The body of Ben McLean was discovered in a rear garden at West Preston Street, Edinburgh, at around 9am on Friday, January 16.

Police said they are currently treating the death of the 19-year-old, a former pupil of St Luke’s High School, as unexplained.

Bright student Ben is thought to have been in his second-year of studies at Edinburgh University’s Medical School.

Shattered pals have described him as a “true gent” and “legend” on social media sites Facebook and Twitter while expressing their shock and disbelief over the tragedy.

His sister, Megan, spoke out about her heartbreak on Twitter.

She said: “If you had the pleasure of knowing Ben, you are so lucky.

“Ben was too young, too smart and too brilliant for it to end like this.” “My best friend, I love you Ben and I refuse to accept that this is happening, you deserved so much more out of life.” Ben’s cousin Connor John McInlay wrote: “RIP Ben, you were far too young and smart.

“I’m proud to be your big cousin. RIP wee cousin.” Every person to pay tribute to Ben has remembered him for his kindness, saying they were lucky to have known him.

He is survived by his dad Kevin, mum Tracey, sister Megan, 16 and Olivia, 11.

The news of Ben’s passing comes just days after the funeral of another local teenager who was laid to rest after he fell to his death on New Year’s day, in an unexplained incident in Manchester.

Stenhousemuir under-20s player Kyle Doherty fell off the roof of the city’s Suede nightclub during Hogmanay celebrations.

His body was found in a courtyard between two buildings at 10pm on New Year’s day, eight hours after he was reported missing by friends.

Residents have been flooding The News Facebook page with condolences for Ben’s family and friends, and have remembered the bright teen fondly.

Debbie Kennedy, said: “One of the nicest young men I have ever met, have been cutting your hair since you were only young, watched you grow into a handsome young man.

“Who always had a pic for me with the hair cut you wanted. Always knew what you wanted in life. I’m one of the lucky ones who had the pleasure of knowing you. So, so, so sad.

“Can’t believe I won’t be seeing you again.” Another, Harry Mcwhirter, added: “God bless you Ben, absolute gentleman.

“My thoughts are with Kevin, Tracey, Megan and Olivia, as well as the rest of the family.” Edinburgh University said they do not comment on individual cases.

Alexander Baskhanov, of Edinburgh, appeared at the city’s sheriff court on Monday in connection with drugs supply offences following the discovery of the student’s body.

The 19-year-old was charged with three offences under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

He made no plea or declaration and was released on bail.

A police spokeswoman said: “Officers from Police Scotland in Edinburgh have charged a 19-year-old man with drugs supply offences following the discovery of a body on Friday morning.”