The family of a man murdered after he had defended a man being abused have described him as their hero. 

Dad-of-four James Gibbons, 34, was stabbed four times in Iris Mews at around 9.30pm on Sunday 2 May.

He had been holding a birthday party for his two young daughters.

James was stabbed four times by the teenager in an alleyway off Iris Mews after he had defended a man being abused by a group of young people.

A 16-year-old boy from Laindon was arrested and charged with his murder.

The teenager claimed he had brought a knife to the scene to protect himself against James, but the prosecution discredited this defence and he was today found guilty of murder at Chelmsford Crown Court after a five-week trial.

He will be sentenced on a date yet to be fixed, at least four weeks from today.

Read more >> Boy, 16, found guilty of murdering father of four after fatal stabbing

In a statement today his family said: "All of James’ family want to thank all those who were involved with this case.

"First of all to the neighbours of James. To the police officers who were first on the scene. To the paramedics and ambulance crew. I know you all tried your hardest to save James’ life that night. We now know that there was nothing that could be done to save him.

"To the Essex Police investigation team, of which there were many officers who worked quickly and tirelessly in getting the evidence and witnesses together.

"To the prosecution team, for the hard work and hours you have put in to ensure that justice has been done today.

"To our liaison officers, who have been our support and contact throughout this devastating time.

"And to victim support, we thank you all.

"James was a loving son, a devoted father to his four children, a protective brother, uncle, cousin and a perfect partner and soul mate to his fiancée, Victoria.

"James was a grafter, a real hardworking man, who wanted nothing else but to provide for his family. He, Vicky and their children had their whole future to look forward to. Unfortunately, this has been taken from them.

"James did not like bullies, and he would always be the one who would protect and look out for vulnerable people.

"We are proud of him; he is our hero.

"We have set up Facebook and Instagram pages, called justice4jamesg We have set up these accounts in the hope that they will raise awareness and support others affected by knife crime and we urge the public to follow these pages to support our campaign.

"And now it is time for us as a family to begin our grieving process, and finally lay James to rest in peace."