A man who died in Dilkes Park after he is believed to have been assaulted has been named locally as George Cunningham.

Also called 'Teardrop' George, it is believed that he was the victim who sadly died in Dilkes Park in South Ockendon yesterday.

The police arrived after they were called by the ambulance service and found a man to be injured near Dilkes Park in Foyle Drive ar around 3pm yesterday.

It is believed the victim was assaulted by two men who made off from the scene in a car, described as silver or light-coloured.

Laura Bergeron, a friend of George's, paid tribute to him.

She said: "George was a good friend to me in times of need.

"A lovely caring person who you could always have a laugh with.

"He will be deeply missed and I will always remember him and be grateful for all he did. May he rest in peace."

Police are still treating the incident as a murder investigation. No arrests have been made as of yet.

A forensic post-mortem is due to take place today.

If you have any information about the incident please contact 101 quoting incident 588 of 14/12 or emailscd.appeals.essex@essex.pnn.police.uk