A 25-year-old man has died after being punched to the ground outside a bar in the Essex town made famous by TV reality show TOWIE.
Paul Wallington was attacked outside The Vine gastro bar in Brentwood, Essex, at 11.50pm on Christmas Eve.
Emergency services took him to hospital, where he sadly died on Saturday, December 29.
The Vine is among a number of pubs and bars which attracts fans drawn to the town where the ITV reality show The Only Way Is Essex is shot.
Police have launched a murder investigation and officers from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate are investigation the case.
A 29-year-old man, from Basildon, was arrested on suspicion of murder yesterday (sun) morning and remains in custody.
Trained officers are supporting the victim’s family, who said: “We are devastated at the loss of our beloved son, Paul.
“He was a happy and loving son and enjoyed spending time at home with his family, especially his nephews and nieces.
“Paul is a much loved son, brother and grandson. We would ask that at this time we are left in peace to grieve as a family.”
Senior Investigating Officer, DCI Daniel Stoten, said: “The death of a man so young, at this time of year is heart-breaking.
“We would like to hear from anyone who was at or near to The Vine prior to, or at the time of the incident and witnessed it or recorded footage on their phones.
“I would also like to appeal to the occupants of any passing vehicles who witnessed the incident or have dash-cam footage to contact us.”
by Emilia Bruce-Watt