RELATIVES of a man who was found dead in his Westcliff home have paid tribute to his memory.

Jeffrey Shepherd, 50, was found collapsed in the kitchen of the property on Beedell Avenue, Westcliff, on July 5.

In a statement, his family said: "Jeff was loved by his family and friends and was a doting father to his seven children.

“He had a good heart and would take care of anyone, even if it meant giving them his last dime.

“He had a bubbly personality and loved his children with all his heart.

“He will be sorely missed by us all."

Jeff's 10-year-old daughter added: "Daddy I love you."

A preliminary cause of death has shown that Mr Shepherd died from blunt trauma.

Unemployed Carlyle Daley appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court charged with murder on Wednesday.

He will appear again at the court for a plea and case management hearing on September 7, with a provisional trial date booked for January 4.