TRIBUTES have been paid to a “nice man” and “friendly neighbour” who sadly died after being found with serious injuries.

Essex Police have launched an investigation into the death of a man in his 40s who was found in his home on Mount Pleasant in Maldon on Saturday September 30.

A spokesman for the ambulance service said: “We were called to reports of a man with serious injuries on September 30 at 7.06pm in Mount Pleasant, Maldon.

“An ambulance and two ambulance officers attended the scene, however the patient sadly died.”

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We are investigating the circumstances which led to the death of a man, who was found inside a property in Maldon.

“He was found with serious injuries shortly after 7pm on Saturday, September 30, at an address in Mount Pleasant. “He was sadly declared dead at the scene by ambulance staff.

“The death is being treated as unexplained.

“Investigations are being conducted to establish what happened. No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing.”

The man has been named locally as Dan Maher.

Police were present in the road for nearly a week following the discovery.

Flowers have been laid outside Mr Maher’s house, along with messages and a bottle of beer.

Residents of Mount Pleasant regarded Mr Maher as a good neighbour who was approachable.

One said: “I really didn’t know much about him. I didn’t know anything had happened until the police turned up. After that evening they were stationed here most of the week.

“He lived on his own, we didn’t know each other well, but he was a very nice man and was always friendly when you met him in the road.”

Carol Pearson said: “I think many of us along the road and nearby knew him as a neighbour, but not much about him.

“He was a pleasure to talk to all the time, his friendly face will be missed here I’m sure.”

Police are appealing for witnesses in relation to the case.

Anyone with information should contact the North Major Crime office on 01206 576845, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Mr Maher's inquest is due to open at Essex Coroner's Court in Chelmsford tomorrow.