A HEARTBROKEN family have paid tribute to a "much-loved father, son, partner and brother" from Clacton who died after being stabbed in Lawford.

46 year-old John Comer, from Clacton, was found with injuries to his chest and stomach in Barker Close at around 5.15am on Friday, December 1.

He was taken to hospital for treatment but died from his injuries.

In a statement John’s family said: “John was a much loved father, son, partner and brother. He will be sadly missed by all of his family and friends.

“As a family, we would now like the time to process our grief in private.”

Patrick Chandler, 44, of no fixed address, has been charged with murder.

He appeared at Chelmsford Crown court on Tuesday, December 5.

He is next due to appear in court in February.