The mother of Colchester stabbing victim James Attfield has today paid tribute to a man who will be “sorely missed by all who knew him”, following his funeral.

Family and friends gathered at St Peter ad Vincula church in Church Green, Coggleshall, today to remember the 33-year-old, known as Jim, three months after he was discovered in Lower Castle Park.

The service was conducted by the Revered Bill Howes, with the service including music from bands such as Snow Patrol, The Script and Michael Buble – some Jim’s favourite artists.

His mother, Julie Finch, said today: “I have been asked on many occasions since his death what was Jim like? And all I can reply is ‘he was just Jim’.

“Jim had an infectious laugh and wicked sense of humour and will be sorely missed by all who knew him, especially his family.

“His life ended in a way nobody’s should and today as a family we want to give him the send-off he deserves. Jim is being buried in Coggeshall church – though he is no longer here in person he can be close to me.”

Detectives are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Jim’s death and are continuing to appeal for anyone with information to contact them.

Jim was discovered on March 29 with 102 stab wounds to his body. A reward of £10,000 has been offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for his death.

So far, officers have taken more than 800 statements and more than 230 people have phoned them in response to appeals.

Deputy Senior Investigating Officer, DI Anne Cameron, said: “James was a vulnerable man who would not have been able to run away from his attacker. For the sake of his family we will do all we can to bring his killer to justice.”

Eastern Regional Manager for Crimestoppers Ann Scott said: “I live in this community myself. I am reassured by the extra police presence and know that Essex Police are doing everything possible to find the person or persons responsible for both James’ murder and that of Nahid Almanea.”

If you have information, please call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.