Colchester: Murdered Man Named

Essex Police say the man who died in Castle Park in Colchester had been attacked with a "bladed weapon".

The man - who has been named as 33 year-old James 'Jim' Attfield from East Bay in the town - was discovered with serious injuries to his upper body, including his head and hands. 

A murder investigation was launched and a 1.5 mile corden was put in place between Wakefield Close and Riverside Place. 

A postmortem examination into Mr Attfield's death is due to take place later today. Senior Investigating Officer DCI Simon Werrett said: "Castle Park is used at all hours of the day and night and I'm sure someone will have seen something. 

"I really need to hear from anyone who saw anybody acting suspiciously in the park, anyone who heard anything untoward, or anyone who thinks they may know who is responsible for Jim's death. 

"Equally I would invite the person or people responsible to hand themselves in. We have not yet been able to establish a motive for this violent attack during which we believe a bladed weapon has been used. 

"Until the post-mortem examination has been carried out I am unable to say what that weapon may have been or to elaborate on the injuries caused." 

Local superintendent Steve Ditchburn said there will be an increased police presence in Colchester town centre, both to assist with the investigation and to offer reassurance to local residents. 

He said: "We remain concerned that we have not yet been able to trace the person or people responsible for this death. 

"I hope residents will take some reassurance from the increased presence today which will be continuing throughout the evening and as long as is necessary, but I am aware that this incident will be causing some to worry. 

"I would ask people to remain vigilant and to contact us if they see anything suspicious." 

Anyone with information is asked to contact the North Major Investigation Team on 01206 576845, 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.