A close friend of a "much-loved" man who died after being stabbed in the leg is aiming to raise funds for his funeral.

Andrew Durgan, who lives in Braintree, has set up a gofundme page in an effort to ease the financial pressure on the family of his best friend, Murdoch Brown.

Police believe Mr Brown was murdered during an incident in Greenstead, Colchester, last week.

The 31-year-old was stabbed in the leg shortly before 1.10am on Tuesday, May 7, and later died from blood loss.

With investigations into the murder continuing, Mr Durgan has set up an online fundraising page in an effort to raise cash for the family of his close friend, who he first met during a motocross event.

In a statement on the gofundme page, he said: "Following the tragic death of our good friend Murdoch Brown, I would like to try and take the pressure off his partner.

"Many people will know Murdoch as being the lovable rogue and only a few got to see the real Murdoch, kind, loving, loyal and protective.

"Murdoch has made a massive impact on a lot of people’s lives and I know a lot of people would love to help in someway.

"So why not try and make this sad time a little less painful and let’s give Murdoch the amazing send off he deserves."

Mr Durgan has set a target of £2,000 on the page and more than £1,000 has already been raised.

Following Mr Brown's death, his family paid tribute to their "much-loved partner, son, brother and uncle".

They also said they were "heartbroken" and stated he would be "very-much missed" by those who knew him.

Essex Police say they believe Mr Brown's death could potentially be linked to the sale of drugs.

A 30-year-old woman was arrested earlier today on conspiracy to murder in connection with Mr Brown's death.

To make a donation, search In loving memory of Murdoch Brown on the gofundme website.