“VALIANT” staff members at a Westcliff pub where a man was killed just before Christmas have been praised for doing “everything they could” to save the victim.

Dave Peck, 51, died after he was attacked inside the Lamb and Lion in Station Road at around 6.40pm on Friday, December 23.

The pub will remain closed for a period of “soul searching”.

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In a statement released on social media the pub’s owner said: “I have spent a lot of time today with Dave’s mrs and our superb staff who acted valiantly in the situation a few days ago. I could not ask for more.

“From our staff who remained calm and tried everything they could to save Dave along with help. From the patrons who again acted valiantly. We are as a whole along with Dave’s wife Jo.”

They added: “I am shaken at this tragedy and am lost for words.

“There are no words to put this right and we wish to let his family know that we are here whatever the weather to support where we can.

“A tragic end to the year. The pub will remain shut for now as we do some soul searching.”

Alfred Turner, 44, of Station Road, Westcliff has been charged with murder as well as possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, and two counts of possession of a bladed article in a public place.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

"Please quote the crime reference number 42/304569/22.

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) between 10am-9pm.

"Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services.

"Alternatively, you can call us on 101.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity @Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111."