A Canvey murder victim has been named locally as a father, as a fundraising page has been launched online for his family.

Essex Police launched a murder investigation after a man in his 40s died after being assaulted near to The Haystack pub on Canvey.

On Saturday morning he was found injured in the car park to Iceland in Furtherwick Road.

He's now been named as Matt Portwood who worked as a doorman at venues, according to friends.

There was a cordon in place all weekend in the town centre and police say no arrests have been made.

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A GoFundMe page says: "As Canvey is aware we lost a very special dad and dear friend to many in the early hours on February 4.

"As you can imagine this is a shock to everyone especially his children family and friends, Matt was known by many for many different reasons, as a family we want to give Matt the send of he deserves and have this page up in hope of support for Matt and his children at this very sad and tragic time."

Detectives investigating the murder have set up a special portal through which the public can submit information.

Detective Chief Inspector Greg Wood, who’s leading the investigation, said: “We’re continuing to make good progress in our investigation.

Echo:

“We have had a number of witnesses and people with information contact us and I want to thank them for coming forward.

“I still need anyone who saw something or has any information about what happened who hasn’t yet spoken to us to call us.

“The information you have could be vital to our enquiries. A cordon is still in place in the area, but I expect that to be removed once we’ve finished at the scene later today.

“I know it has caused disruption to the centre of the town, but it’s been really important to ensure we’re able to gather all evidence possible and I want to thank the public for their patience and understanding.”

To donate see www.gofundme.com/f/funeral-fund-for-matt?

The Essex Police portal can be found at mipp.police.uk/operation/4201020122Q41-PO1