Littlehampton: Tributes paid to 'family man' found dead in street

The body of Paul Lawrence, 51, was found in a street in Littlehampton, near Bognor Regis, Sussex Police said

The family of a man found dead in a street in Littlehampton have said their hearts are "totally ripped apart".

Paul Lawrence, 51, was found in Gladonian Road at about 06:00 GMT on Sunday, Sussex Police said.

His daughters Louise and Josephine described their father as "our hero, our strength, our everything".

A 16-year-old boy, who was arrested on suspicion of murder the same day, has since been bailed.

"Paul was a much-loved son, brother, father and grandfather," his daughters said, adding he was a "family man who devoted his life to his children and grandchildren".

They said their father was "a gentle soul, full of happiness, and loved by all who knew him".

"No words will ever be enough to describe the impact of our loss," the sisters said.

Paul Lawrence was pronounced dead at the scene in Gladonian Road, Littlehampton

His siblings, John and Shelley, said: "Paul was the kindest man that would help anyone.

"He would light up the darkest of rooms with his smile and cheeky laugh."

They added: "Our hearts are not only broken but they're totally ripped apart."

His mother Marie, said: "I'm really broken. I loved him so much, I can't visualise this world without him."

Sussex Police confirmed a 16-year-old boy from Littlehampton has since been released on bail with conditions, including a curfew, until 14 March as enquiries continue.

Det Insp Duncan Elliott, of the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, said: "We are treating this as an isolated incident and we have no information at this time to suggest a weapon was involved."

Anyone with information, mobile, CCTV or dash cam footage of the incident is urged to come forward.

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