TOUCHING tributes have been paid to a kind-hearted restaurant worker who was stabbed to death in a street.

Daniel Mitchell-Monroe, 37, who lived in Vange, was the victim of a brutal attack outside Iceland, in Market Pavement, Basildon.

The Echo told yesterday how he was airlifted to hospital following the attack at about 5.30pm on Tuesday. He later died.

Eye-witnesses said they heard an argument and a woman screaming in the moments leading up to the attack.

Joram Bakumanya, 22, unemployed, of no fixed address, was last night charged with murder and is due to appear at Basildon Magistrates’ Court today.

The former Woodlands School pupil worked at Harvester in Langdon Hills and his colleagues say they can’t believe they will never see him laugh or smile again.

Speaking on behalf of the restaurant team, manager Johanna Perry said “Daniel had real team spirit – he was kind and caring and a valued member of the team.

“We are all very close here and we are all devastated and heartbroken to hear of this news.

“It was a privilege to be his friend and colleague and knowing that we will never hear his laugh or see his smile is unfathomable.

“He will be sadly missed,”

A spokesman for Harvester also confirmed that the restaurant would be closing early yesterday in recognition of the killing.

Floral tributes have also been laid at the scene of the stabbing.

A colleague wrote: “To Dan, will miss our drinks after work. Rest in peace mate.

“From Koi (from Harvester).”

Meanwhile Simon Cox, headteacher at Woodlands School, said his thoughts go out to Daniel’s family.

He said: “We are very sad to learn that the victim was a member of the Woodlands community and our thoughts and condolences go out to his family.”

Police arrested Bakumanya, 22, near the scene shortly after the attack on suspicion of murder.

Friend Dean Outen posted on Facebook: “I will miss you my friend and can’t wait until one day when I will see you again.

“Words can never express my heartache that I feel for you.”

Joanne Rashbrook added: “I will miss you, you’re such a good man with a brilliant heart.”