Family and friends of a man stabbed to death in Laindon paid tribute today to the "loveable rogue" after a woman appeared in court charged with his murder.

Katherine Taylor, 32, of Gaywood, Laindon, appeared at Basildon Magistrates' Court charged with the murder of Ricky Wyatt, 34, of Royal Court, Laindon. She was remanded in custody.

Ricky's ex-girlfriend Zena Pithers, 31, who learned about his death through a text message, described him as a "joker" who would do anything to help people.

She said: "He was a good father to his son, Ricky John, three. I knew him since I was 12. He was a joker really who could make a laugh out of anything.

"He wouldn't harm anyone and would do anything to help anyone. He was not the sort of person to get into arguments. I am devastated and angry this could happen."

"It would have been Ricky's birthday next month.

His son was born just four days after Ricky's birthday. We wanted them so much to share the same birthday. This has left a young boy who idolised him without a father."

In a joint statement his family said: "Although we haven't had close contact with Ricky for several months he will be dearly missed by his mum, sisters, nan, family and friends.

"Ricky was a loveable rogue who at times in his life chose the wrong routes and fell into the dangerous world of drugs. We hope that Ricky's death can be a lesson to all those that are involved in these circles."