MURDER charges have been brought against a 44-year-old after a man was attacked and killed in a Westcliff pub two days before Christmas.

Dave Peck, 51, was assaulted inside the Lamb and Lion pub in Station Road at around 6.40pm on Friday, December 23.

Essex Police went on to arrest Alfred Turner in the Pier Hill area, with the 44-year-old charged with murder, possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, and two counts of possession of a bladed article in a public place.

The 44-year-old, of Station Road, Westcliff, appeared in Chelmsford Magistrates Court on Monday, December 26.

Echo: Response – Essex Police acted quickly after the incident was reported to them on Friday eveningResponse – Essex Police acted quickly after the incident was reported to them on Friday evening (Image: Essex Police)

Mr Peck’s family paid a heartfelt tribute on Monday afternoon, describing the sense of loss they felt as ‘devastating.’

A statement read: “Our hearts are broken.

"Dave is and always will be a much-loved partner, father, son and brother.

“He has been taken from his family and friends far too soon.

“While we try to come to terms with our sudden and devastating loss, we as the family ask for privacy at this extremely difficult time.”

Echo: Charged – Alfred Turner appeared in Chelmsford Magistrates Court on Boxing DayCharged – Alfred Turner appeared in Chelmsford Magistrates Court on Boxing Day (Image: Essex Police)

The police are still asking members of the public who have any information pertaining to the incident to come forward.

CCTV, dashcam or any footage relating to the incident on Friday evening can be handed to the police, who are contactable on 101, or on the Essex Police website.

Members of the public contacting the police about this incident are asked to quote the crime reference number 42/304569/22.