Detectives are continuing this morning to question a 23-year-old man arrested yesterday on suspicion of the murder of Reynald Duchene.

The chef, from South Woodham Ferrers, died on Saturday from a single stab wound following an altercation in Priory Crescent, Southend.

Mr Duchene had attended the Priory Park open-air classical concert in Southend with his partner, children and friends on Saturday.

Following its conclusion, they became involved in an altercation with a group of men and women in Priory Crescent, near to its junction, with Victoria Avenue at 11.30pm.

The 37-year-old, of Arlington Square, was stabbed in the chest and collapsed a short distance away.

He was found by his partner and friends. A post-mortem examination showed that the provisional cause of death to be a single stab wound.

Mr Duchene’s family have issued a statement in tribute to him, which read: “Mum always knew how to direct her three strong, individual sons.

"She taught them that when they support each other, they achieve more.

"She also taught them this, the most important thing, by helping others you are becoming a better person, when you are becoming a better person you are happier, when you are happier, you want to give happiness to others.

"They would ‘jump into the fire’ for each other - that is how it was in the family home.

"It was so easy to become close to Rey, because he was able to make you feel safe. You could count on him even in the most difficult situations.

"Thanks to him, his partner Paula regained faith in the loyalty of a partnership. She trusted him in the name of her three children.

"Often, with tears in her eyes she was saying that no-one ever loved them as much as Rey. They became a wonderful, happy family.

"His mum would tell him, ‘to look after them’. Rey did look after them. Their house was full of smiles,and they were always discussing their future plans.

"Rey had a special talent for cooking and was often preparing delicious culinary surprises.

"The events of Saturday evening are impossible to come to terms with. The fantastic atmosphere of the concert, torn apart by an aggressive act.

"Rey was an amazing son, brother, partner, and friend. He will be missed by all who knew him."