THE family of a Widnes murder victim say they are ‘devastated’ by his death.

As detectives continue to hunt for the killer of Lee Briggs, his loved ones have paid tribute.

In a statement, his family said: “We are devastated by Lee’s death and will miss him dearly.

“Lee loved his family and adored his children – they were his world and he lived for them.

“He had a good sense of humour and enjoyed talking to people.”

A murder investigation was launched after Mr Briggs was found following an incident in St Marie’s Community Park shortly before 5pm on Monday.

He was discovered with serious injuries in the park on Ann Street West which is near Tesco Extra off Lugsdale Road.

Mr Briggs was taken to Whiston Hospital by ambulance where he sadly died a short time later.

A post mortem examination on Tuesday afternoon, which concluded that he died from a single stab wound.

Enquiries have been ongoing in the area including house-to-house enquiries, CCTV enquiries and forensic enquiries.

Officers are particularly keen to speak to anyone who may have been in the area – particularly St Marie’s Park shortly before the incident.

Detectives are trying to trace Mr Briggs’ last movements.

Detective Inspector Steve Jones said: "Extensive enquiries are being carried out in the local area to establish the full circumstances of what has happened.

“These enquiries have been ongoing since Monday evening and I would like to reassure the public that we are doing everything we can to trace whoever is responsible.

“We are trying to trace Lee’s movements in the hours before his untimely death. I would like to hear from anyone who saw Lee on Monday between noon and 5pm.

“I would also like to speak to anyone who was in St Marie’s Park between 4pm and 5pm that day – it is regularly used by dog walkers and as a through route and people may have seen something, which could assist with our enquiries.

“We are continuing to support the victim’s family through what is a very difficult time for them.”

Anyone with any information which could assist officers with their enquiries is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 628 of 16th May.

Information can also be left anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.