POLICE have charged the ex-partner of Leanne Meecham with murder following her death yesterday.

Simon Meecham, 42, of Shoebury, has now been charged with the murder of his former partner, Leanne Meecham, after she was stabbed in her home on the morning of February 13 and died yesterday.

Meecham will be detained in police custody prior to his appearance before Chelmsford Magistrates' Court tomorrow.

The family of Leanne Meecham have issued the following tribute to her: "Leanne was a beautiful woman and a much loved daughter, sister and mother who always put the happiness of others before her own.

"She was a devoted mother and a best friend to her siblings and was always there for anyone who ever needed her help.

"Leanne would not let people worry about her and even when times were tough for her she showed that she was one of life’s angels.

"Leanne’s tragic and untimely death has left a massive hole in all of our lives that none of us will ever be able to fill and she will never be forgotten by those who love her.

"We hope that Leanne is now in peace and that justice be allowed to take its course.

"We ask that we be left to grieve in private at this difficult time.”