The Prime Minister has led tributes to the Buckinghamshire-born former head of the Royal Marines as an investigation is launched into his death.

Major General Matthew Holmes, 54, who was born in Chalfont St Giles, died on Saturday and the circumstances of his death are being investigated, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said.

Maj Gen Holmes, who had served in Northern Ireland, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan, was Commandant General Royal Marines from 2019 until April this year. A deference source said the decision to replace him was as a result of a restructuring, but he was reportedly "upset" by his removal from the post.

He commanded 42 Commando Royal Marines from 2006 to 2008 and was appointed as a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order for his leadership on operations in Afghanistan in 2007.

He was also awarded a CBE in 2019 and has been described as “one of our most senior and highly decorated Royal Marines”.

Maj Gen Holmes, who lived in Winchester, Hampshire, was a pallbearer at the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral in April during the procession to the steps of St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.

Boris Johnson tweeted: “I am very saddened to learn of the death of Major General Matt Holmes. My thoughts are with Matt’s family and friends at this difficult time, as well as the Royal Marines and Royal Navy who I know will feel this loss keenly.”

A spokeswoman for the Hampshire Coroner’s Office confirmed that it had been notified of the death on Monday.

The MoD said its thoughts, sympathies and deepest heartfelt condolences were with family and friends of Maj Gen Holmes, who had two children with his wife, Lea, a solicitor.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace also paid tribute, saying: “Across defence, we mourn the tragic loss of one of our own. Major General Matt Holmes embodied the spirit of our armed forces, serving with distinction and rigour for over 30 years.

“I shall always be grateful for Matt’s assistance in leading the Marines through the reforms of the Future Commando Force.

“My sincerest condolences lie with Matt’s family and those closest to him. We will do all we can to support them during this painful time and ensure Matt’s legacy is celebrated with the honour he richly deserves.”

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said he was “deeply saddened to hear about the tragic death” of his friend, adding: “We mourn the loss of one of our most senior and highly decorated Royal Marines; a devoted former Commandant General who had served the nation, the Royal Navy and his beloved Corps with distinction for 33 years.

“Matt was also a dear friend to many, and a close friend of mine for over 20 years. He will be sorely missed by the Service and especially the Corps Family.

“But my thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy are with Matt’s family.

“Their loss is the greatest and most painful: we will be there for them now and always.”