THE death of mum Cheryl Birdsall is the latest in a number of incidents in the area, residents say. 

Miss Birdsall was found dead in her home, in Avignon Close, in Colchester, on Tuesday evening. 

A 43-year-old man was last night being quizzed on suspicion of the 37-year-old mum's murder.

Army veteran was stabbed nine times with a screwdriver near to the flat where Ms Birdsall’s body was found.

Michael Suttey, 53, lives next door to the address, in Avignon Close, and told of the violence he had experienced in the area.

He was attacked on the doorstep of his own home in April 2016.

“I was stabbed nine times last year and am lucky to be alive,” he said.

“There are plenty of lovely people [here] but violence isn’t uncommon.

“Cheryl was lovely and it is such a shame this has happened.”

Mr Suttey, a grandad-of-four, said was stabbed in the back, neck and head before he could fight his attacker off.

In December 2014, two men were stabbed repeatedly at a block of flats on the corner of Avignon Close and Mountbatten Drive.

Lee Scordis, ward councillor for Old Heath and the Hythe, said residents must report suspicious activity to the police.

“I am shocked by this and would first of all offer my condolences to her family and friends who have lost someone so close to them,” he said.

“I am aware in the past there has been anti-social behaviour there and drug dealing, though nothing has been confirmed about the nature of this death.

“I would say if the police were aware of this behaviour there should have been stronger investigations into it.

“All residents must report anything suspicious to the police. If nothing is reported nothing will get done.”

Friends have paid tribute to the loving mum on social media.

Pal Louise Jean Burden wrote: "Omg r.i.p Cheryl Birdsall thoughts are with your beautiful kiddies xxx cant beleive it mate miss our cuppas xxx."

Donna Marie added: "Waking up to such sad news this morning RIP Cheryl Birdsall will miss u truly we had some giggles sleep tight angel."

Jessie Daisy posted: "RIP Cheryl Birdsall, may all the angels protect you and keep you safe."