A THUG has admitted killing a ‘caring and selfless’ man during an attack in Westcliff.

Radu Ciobanu, 24, admitted the manslaughter of James Avis while appearing at Basildon Crown Court yesterday.

He had assaulted Mr Avis in Hainault Avenue back on September 25.

Mr Avis, 35, died from his injuries at the scene.

Ciobanu, of Kings Chase, Witham, was arrested shortly after and subsequently charged with manslaughter.

Having pleaded guilty, Ciobanu is due to reappear at Basildon Crown Court on Friday for sentencing.

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Senior investigating officer, Det Chief Insp Louise Metcalfe, said: “James’ death was a needless and avoidable tragedy.

“Radu Ciobanu’s actions have caused James’ family a huge amount of grief.

“He has at least admitted his guilt and prevented them from re-living the ordeal through a trial.”

Friends were quick to pay tribute to Mr Avis following his death. 

Hollie Glenister, 33, said Mr Avis was always there for her after being friends from a young age.

She said: “I’ve got lots of good memories and he was such a caring person and I just don’t know where this has come from, it was such a shock.

“We last spoke in April and he’d check in with me and I feel like I’ve lost a good friend who I could turn to and I don’t have many people I can turn to."