TRIBUTES have been paid to a man raised in Thurrock who was murdered as he stepped in as a 'good Samaritan' to stop a gang's anti-social behaviour in his neighbourhood.

Dad-of-four James Gibbons, 34, was attacked and stabbed on Sunday (2 May) close to his home in Iris Mews, Laindon in Basildon.

James grew up in Stanford-le-Hope and attended St Clere's School and also lived in East Tilbury.

Friends who asked not to be named, told Thurrock Nub News that he was an outstanding young person and grew up to be a much-respected man. "He was such a nice guy, he was popular and a friends to everyone. He will be known to so many people who grew up in the Stanford area."

Mr Gibbons died soon after he was attacked in the road at about 9.30pm on Sunday when he reportedly went out to go to the aid of a man being harassed by a gang.

A statement from Essex Police says: "Despite the best efforts of medics and police officers, James died. We believe James sustained the injuries after attempting to go to the aid of another man.

"His family have described him as a loving father who would always look out for anyone less fortunate than himself."

In a statement, his family said: "James was an amazing father of four young children, engaged to his partner of 11 years, and was a loving and supportive son and brother.

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"James was a hard-working family-orientated man, who ran his own bathroom fitting company and was looking forward to a positive future for him and his family."

They added: "This tragedy occurred after he had spent the day celebrating his two-year-old twin girls' birthday at home and we are absolutely broken beyond belief at this pointless loss which has had a devastating effect on us all.

"James was the kind of person who would always be prepared to help anyone less fortunate than himself, which is what he was doing on Sunday night.

"As a family we are urging anyone to come forward with any information that may help the police as they investigate James' death in the hope we can get justice."

In total, police have arrested five teenagers on suspicion of murder. Two teenagers have been released on bail until 28 May. One teenager has been released on bail until 25 May.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has footage of what led to it or has information on it is asked to submit a report online via this link where you can use the 'Live Chat' button to speak to an online operator between 7am and11pm. You can also call police on 101 and cite incident 1292 of May 2.

Information can also be given to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.