POLICE have confirmed they have prepared a file for the coroner and it is likely an inquest will take place in the new year following the death of rough sleeper who captured many hearts in local towns and villages.

As reported on Thurrock Nub News, a man known locally as 'Jimmy' who has been sleeping rough in Horndon, Stanford-le-Hope and Corringham was found dead in Corringham town centre on Christmas Eve.

Essex Police, whose officers were called when early morning passers by were alerted by sounds of the man in distress, have issued the following statement: "We were called to concerns for the welfare of a man in Grover Walk, Corringham, shortly before 10am on Sunday, 24 December.

"Sadly, the man was pronounced deceased at the scene.

"His death is not being treated as suspicious and a file has been prepared for the coroner."