Tributes have been paid to a "well loved" and "dedicated" boxer who died after being stabbed in Old Leigh on Friday evening.

Luke Bellfield, who has been named locally by friends, has been remembered by his former club, Hockley Boxing Club.

The 18-year-old was admitted to hospital with stab wounds on Friday night where he died a short while after.

Essex Police have launched a murder investigation into his death.

A 31-year-old man from Westcliff and a 19-year-old man from Rayleigh were arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm.

Hockley Boxing Club have paid tribute to Luke as they remember his successes.

Luke started boxing there at the age of 8, where his hard work and dedication saw him achieve two national finals at the England Boxing National Schools Championships at the ages of 13 and 14.

Throughout his time with the club, Luke also went onto win gold in the Three Nations and an England vest at the age of 15.

Hockley Boxing Club shared this photo of Luke after he won gold at the Three Nations.

Echo: Luke Bellfield after winning gold at the Three Nations, aged 15. Picture: Hockley Boxing Club. Luke Bellfield after winning gold at the Three Nations, aged 15. Picture: Hockley Boxing Club.

He later left the club at the age of 15 and continued as a junior boxer at London club, Repton.

Tim Yeates, head coach at Hockley Boxing Club said: "Luke’s love for boxing started at the age of 8, his passion and dedication saw him through six years of boxing, achieving two national finals, win gold in the Three Nations and an England vest.

"Luke continued his journey as a junior boxer in London.

"A well-loved and dedicated boxer that has been taken far too soon.

"Our thoughts are with the family at this sad time from all at Hockley Boxing Club."

A fundraiser has been set up by friends to help his family through this difficult time and to cover the costs of the funeral.

To donate, click here.