Residents have been left in shock after an 18-year-old was stabbed in Leigh Old Town last night.

Essex Police were called just after 6pm yesterday evening after an 18-year-old man was admitted to hospital with stab wounds, where he died a short time after.

The Leigh community have been left shaken and saddened at the "heartbreaking" news.

Brandy Kneller said: "So young sending his poor family strength to get through this heartbreaking news. RIP young man."

Jo Lewis said: "How very sad. RIP young man. Thoughts are with his family and friends."

Collette Kerry said: "Nowhere these days are safe so sad another life taken thoughts go out to his family and friends."

Caroline Duggan said: "Heartbreaking. RIP young man."

Mim Ephraim said: "This is so very sad to read my thoughts are with his family."

Lisa Sewell said: "Shocking and just so terribly sad and senseless. What a waste of life. Poor boy. Poor family. Rest in peace."

Andy Wilkins said: "18 is no age. Thoughts with his family and friends at this time. Rest in peace."

Lydia Hyde said: "This is terrible. I encourage anyone who is a parent of someone in that group to contact the police and give what information you can. We've lost one young soul tonight, and we don't want to lose another tragedy. RIP and my deepest heartfelt condolences to his family. I don't think there is anything worse than losing a child."

After initial enquiries, police believe the 18-year-old was attacked near the Peterboat pub in High Street, Old Leigh.

Residents living in Leigh also reported large gatherings of young people in Leigh Library Gardens where one youngster was heard discussing who was going to be "shanked".

Two people have been arrested in connection with the murder.

Essex Police are urging anyone with information to come forward. 

A spokesman said: "Anyone who saw what happened or has mobile phone, CCTV or dash cam footage, is asked to speak to officers on scene.

"You can also contact us online at www.essex.police.uk where you can use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am and 11pm.

"Alternatively, you can call 101 or email scd.appeals.essex@essex.pnn.police.uk

"Information can also be given to independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org

"Please quote incident 1011 of today's date when contacting us so we can pass information on to investigating officers as quickly as possible."