The family of a man who died after suffering serious injuries have paid tribute to a “beautiful and kind-hearted soul” after police launched a murder investigation.

Police attended the scene at Willingale Road, Loughton, on Wednesday after a call at around 10.20pm, and found a man had suffered serious injuries.

He was taken on to hospital, but sadly later died on Thursday.

Although formal identification has yet to take place, police have named him as 60-year-old John Bain.

In a statement, his family said: “Our brother, John, will be remembered by us all as a beautiful and kind-hearted soul.

“He was known as Johnny to his friends and family.

“He will be sadly missed by us all.

“Fly high Johnny, we love you.”

The family continue to be supported by specialist officers.

Georgia Wildman, 30, of Mornington Road, Loughton, is charged with murdering John and is due to appear at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court today.

Police are continuing to appeal for anyone with information on this incident to get in touch.

Submit a report at www.essex.police.uk or by calling 101.