AN inquest into the death of Thurrock-based businessman and reality TV celebrity Mick Norcross will take place later this year.

The hearing will be held on July 22 at Essex Coroner's Court in Chelmsford.

An opening into the inquest held in February heard how the TV star was found dead in the basement of his home in Bulphan by police and medics, on January 21.

His death drew widespread national attention as well as tributes from those who knew him locally.

Mr Norcross was born in Grays and attended local schools before starting work by following in the footsteps of his dad at Tilbury docks and then he went on to develop a successful business with many strands to its bow.

He became famous nationally when he joined the cast of reality TV show The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE) in 2011 during the show's second series. His son Kirk, 32, was part of the original cast.

Since his death it has emerged that Mr Norcoss's business empire which included local house-building developments and a significant investment into the The Grand Hotel in Leigh was troubled by significant debts.