Martin Dines was found dead in St Mary's car park in Colchester

Rough sleeper Martin Dines, was found not breathing in the stairwell of St Mary’s car park, in Balkerne Hill, Colchester, shortly before 9am on Monday.

Pals say the last time they saw the 56-year-old - often nicknamed Freddie - he had been badly beaten up on Sunday evening.

They believe he then returned to the car park, where he regularly slept, but did not wake up.

One long-term friend, who asked not to be named, said: “This is a guy who I’ve known for 40 years.

“He wouldn’t have hurt anyone at all.

“He liked a drink, yes, but he was completely harmless.”

He added: “He never looked for a fight or any trouble, which was why we were so shocked when he was beaten up on Sunday night.”

Separate sources have told the Gazette an argument had previously broken out between Mr Dines and another group on Friday night.

It is unclear what the argument was over but it was witnessed by a number of rough sleepers.

Another friend added: “He had been on the streets for years and he probably knew everyone.

“He didn’t deserve this.”

He added: “When you’re on the streets together that long, it’s like an extended family. You look out for each other.

“If someone hasn’t got any money, you lend them a few quid for a beer and you know you’re going to get it back.

“We all trust each other.”

Mr Dines was a member of a group of about 20 “drinkers” who would be regularly seen around Colchester.

A third friend said he was planning on attending Mr Dines’ funeral but was worried it could take place without his friends being told.

He said: “I badly want to be there. I just can’t believe this has happened to a bloke like Freddie.

“If they let me, I would like to be a pallbearer - we’re that close. He’ll be very sadly missed.

“Honestly, he wouldn’t have hurt a fly and we’re all so shocked he’s gone.”