A man has appeared at Basildon Magistrates Court charged with murdering a neighbour.

Darren Cullen, 31, of Redgrave Road, Vange, is accused of killing Leon Murphy, 20.

Two other men arrested following the incident at Mr Murphy's Redgrave Road flat were released without charge.

Mr Murphy's battered body was found by a friend at 8pm on Saturday. He had been killed just yards away from neighbours who were enjoying a barbecue on the warm summer's evening.

Mr Murphy, who lived alone, was confirmed dead at the scene by doctors. A post mortem examination revealed he died from head injuries.

Cullen was today remanded in custody and the case was adjourned until May 12.

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