A POPULAR dad-of-three who was attacked in the street died as a result of a serious head injury, an inquest has heard.

John Masser, 49, from Vange, died from a suspected brain haemorrhage after being attacked in Moss Close, Vange, last Sunday.

His inquest was opened yesterday at Chelmsford Coroner’s Court.

A statement read at the court said: “On October 1, it is believed this 49-year-old gentleman was assaulted and he was conveyed to Basildon Hospital.

“On October 3, his condition deteriorated and he sadly passed away.

Essex Police are investigating the death and a male has been arrested.

“A forensic post mortem was carried by Dr Cary and he has given a provisional cause of death as a severe head injury.”

It is understood that Mr Masser, a huge Chelsea fan, was leaving a friend’s house when he was set upon close to the property.

Steven Keeble, 36, of Moss Close, Vange, has been charged with his murder and has been remanded in custody ahead of an appearance at Basildon Crown Court on November 6.

After news of his death spread, tributes to popular Mr Masser flooded in.

Long-term friend Shelley Mullen said: “I have known John since we were kids and he has always been a lovely person.

“He always had a smile on his face and always had time for you.

“John was cheeky and a charmer.

“I am saddened by what I have read happened, firstly because I have known John for many years and secondly because no one deserved to go like that.”

The former James Hornsby School student was employed as a nightclub doorman and cleaner and once worked at the Echo’s offices in Basildon as a cleaner.

Mr Masser was well-known by Basildon’s homeless community and had spent time living on the streets.

He also appeared at Basildon Crown Court last month, where he denied carrying out a sex attack on a 16-year-old in 1986.

Mr Masser strongly refuted the allegation and was set to stand trial on November 27.

Essex Police has confirmed the case has been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) due to Mr Masser’s contact with the police before his death.

Residents in the street where the incident took place described their shock at the attack.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the North Major Crime office on 01206 576845.