TRIBUTES have been flooding in to a “legend” who died suddenly.

Paul Edwards, 34, died on Thursday following a fatal crash in Epping.

The former Billericay School pupil, who also grew up in Billericay, was described by friends as a “solid bloke”.

Friends took to social media to express their sadness at the news of his death.

One person posted: “Loved you Paul as one of my own family. Words can’t explain how heart broken I feel.

“I will miss you and you will be forever in my heart. My best memories are with and all my Queen’s Park crew - you all know who you are and you all have a space in my heart. Thinking of you all and all Paul’s family.

“Love you all. Forever in my heart you will stay.”

A tribute from his family said: “Paul was a dearly loved son, brother, boyfriend and friend to everyone who knew him.

“He worked in recruitment and was looking forward to a bright future having recently started a new job in the city, which he was very excited about.

“Paul enjoyed cooking for friends and family as well as playing golf. All his family will miss Paul very much, as will his friends, whose visits and kind words have been greatly appreciated.”

Matty Clare wrote: “You was a pain sometimes but loved you so much. We grew up together and nothing could ever change that.”

Paul, who lived in Epping at the time of the crash and worked for SEC Contractors, was travelling along Thornwood Road shortly after 1am, when his car left the road and crashed into a tree.

He sadly died at the scene.

Friends of Paul spoke about the “great laughs” they had had together and how much they missed him.

Faye O’Rourke added: “I can’t believe it, so sad. Such a big part of my life growing up.”

Paul Davidson said: “Truly terrible news. Thoughts to his family and anyone who was lucky enough to have known him.”

Another friend added: “I loved you Paul Edwards. You were hard work in every sense of the word but still a legend.

“What on earth am I going to do when you knock on my door at 2am now?”

Police are continuing to appeal for information about a white Nissan Juke that stopped at the scene and drove off before emergency services arrived. Call 101 with reference 93 of 12/07.