THE devastated family of a man stabbed to death in Rayleigh said he was a "much loved young man".

Paul Fletcher, 31, was found unresponsive at an address in Worcester Drive at around 1am on New Year’s Day and, sadly, died at the scene.

In a statement his family said: “Words cannot describe how each and everyone is feeling right now.

“Our family is devastated and absolutely shocked that Paul ‘Dod’ Fletcher was tragically murdered early hours on New Year’s Day.

“Many lives have been deeply affected from the loss of Dod, he meant so much to so many people. He was a very much-loved young man.

“His family was everything to him, he was always there for everyone did whatever he could to help if and when needed, Paul was not just my little brother he was a great son, father, brother, grandson, uncle, nephew and friend to all those who where lucky to have him in there lives.

“We would firstly like to thank everyone for their kind words and support. It’s humble to know how much he was loved by all.

“We would also like to thank the Essex police and emergency services and local residents for assisting in trying to save his life and all the hard work they are continuing to.

“I personally would like to thank the neighbour who did everything they could for him. We are truely grateful.

“Our family are still coming to the terms of the loss of Paul.”

A post-mortem examination found Paul had sustained a stab wound to his chest.

A 23 year-old woman – Hannah Sindrey, of Worcester Drive, Rayleigh – has been charged with murder.

A 25 year-old woman arrested is on bail until January 29.

Anyone with information should call the Major Crime Team on 101 and quote incident number 147 of January 1.

You can also submit information online via a specially set up online portal: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/4201020120P57-PO1