A BELOVED dad has been described as “one in a million” in a heartfelt tribute from his partner after he tragically died in Westcliff. 

A murder investigation was launched last month after Gary Hindle, 53, and another man, were seriously assaulted on Hamlet Court Road. 

Gary tragically died at the scene despite the best efforts of paramedics and his death has sparked an outpouring of sadness in the community. 

Anne Savill, his partner of more than three years, described Gary as her “soul mate” as she revealed she has “cried every day” as she struggles to come to terms with his death. 

Love - Gary Hindle, with his partner, Annette SavillLove - Gary Hindle, with his partner, Annette Savill (Image: Annette Savill)

 

Speaking to the Echo, she said: “What can I say, he had his demons, but he was a funny, and very loving man.

“I still can’t come to terms with his death. We had the best three and a half years together.

“He would come down the stables, and I taught him to ride. He was a great step grandad and treated my family as his own.

“My life has come to a halt. I have cried every day. I am an empty shell. I don’t function without Gary. I am in bits.

“He was my soul mate, my rock. He was one in a million.”

 

Happy - Gary Hindle riding a horseHappy - Gary Hindle riding a horse (Image: Annette Savill)

An investigation into Gary’s death following the incident on July 18 remains ongoing and is being led by Essex Police’s Serious Crime Directorate.

Barry Mooney, 55, of Crowstone Road, Westcliff, has since been charged with murder, attempted murder and possession of a bladed or pointed article in connection with this investigation.

In a statement issued through police, Gary’s family described him as having “a heart of gold”. 

Smile - Gary has been described as one in a million Smile - Gary has been described as one in a million (Image: Annette Savill)

 

They said: “We are all shocked and devastated by the loss of our much-loved son, dad, brother and partner.

“He has been taken from us in such a tragic way and it’s something no family should ever have to go through.

“Gary was one of a kind and had a heart of gold. He touched so many lives and will be greatly missed by the many people who loved him dearly.”

Barry Mooney will next appear in court on August 30 at Basildon Crown Court.