A MOTHER last night paid tribute to her son who died from a stab wound suffered in an incident at a cashpoint machine in Colchester.Her statement came after police were granted permission to extend the length of time they could detain two men arrested in connection with the murder probe.

By Roddy Ashworth

A MOTHER last night paid tribute to her son who died from a stab wound suffered in an incident at a cashpoint machine in Colchester.

Her statement came after police were granted permission to extend the length of time they could detain two men arrested in connection with the murder.

A woman arrested on suspicion of aiding an offender in connection with the murder of Westley Odger, who was apparently stabbed in the neck at 3pm on Monday, was released on police bail until November.

Anne Odger said: "He was a loving and happy boy with a good and generous spirit, and will be greatly missed as a loving son and brother."

Unemployed Mr Odger, 27, of Jack Andrews Avenue, Colchester, died after an altercation outside the Fourboys Store in Hunwicke Road, on the town's Greenstead Estate.

Bystanders rushed to his aid and tried to help him as blood poured from his throat after the scuffle.

But despite the prompt arrival and attention of paramedics, he died shortly after being taken to Colchester General Hospital.

Police yesterday renewed their call for witnesses to the incident.

Detective Superintendent Tim Wills said: "I am keen to speak to anyone who either saw the altercation or anyone acting suspiciously near to the cashpoint outside Fourboys newsagents where he was stabbed."

Yesterday, detectives at Colchester Magistrates' Court secured a 26-hour warrant for further detention of a 36-year-old man arrested in connection with the murder.

An earlier warrant allowed them to detain a 31-year-old man for a further 36 hours.

Anybody with any information about the murder or who witnessed the incident is asked to contact Essex Police's major investigation team on 01279 641188.