AN INQUEST into the death of a father in Rayleigh has opened.

Paul "Dod" Fletcher was found in Worcester Drive, Rayleigh in the early hours of the morning on January 1.

The 31-year-old was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

The inquest into his death was opened at Essex Coroner's Court in Chelmsford today.

The inquest heard that Mr Fletcher, originally from Dagenham, was found at a house in Rayleigh with a stab wound.

An ambulance was called and his death was confirmed. The police attended and their investigations are ongoing.

A forensic post mortem was carried out by Dr Fitzpatrick-Swallow who gave a provisional cause of death of a stab wound to the chest.

A date for the full inquest hearing has not been given due to the ongoing criminal investigation in relation to Mr Fletcher's death.

Shelley Thomas, Mr Fletcher's sister, said he had been "turning his life around" in the lead up to his death.

The family have launched a fundraiser to help pay for his funeral costs, which is set to be held on February 11.

Hannah Sindrey has been charged with the murder of Mr Fletcher.

The 23-year-old, of Worcester Drive, Rayleigh, was remanded in custody until a plea hearing, due to take place in the week commencing February 1.