MP Sir David Amess has insisted the 'horrendous' death of an 18-year-old man in Old Leigh on Friday 'should never have happened'.

Luke Bellfield, 18, was taken to hospital on Friday evening with stab wounds where he later died.

A post mortem examination found he died as a result of a single stab wound.

Writing on twitter, Sir David described the death as 'horrendous'

He said: "The murder of a young man in Old Leigh on Friday is absolutely horrendous, particularly for the family and friends left behind.  "It should not have happened."

Essex Police have launched a murder investigation and are treating it as a targeted incident.

Police have put out an urgent appeal to trace Alfie Pollard, 17, who they want to speak to in connection with Luke's murder.

Alfie Pollard has links to Leigh and Southend.

Two men who were arrested in connection with the investigation have been released on bail until March 24 while they continue their enquiries.

Anyone who knows of his whereabouts is asked to contact police on 999 or submit information via https://mipp.police.uk/operation/4201020121P63-PO1