An inquest into the death of a man who was found dead after being stabbed in the back will open today.

Carl Hopkins, 49, was found by a passerby in Ryegate Road, Colchester, on Monday and died of injuries to his lung.

Police have launched a murder investigation and are linking Mr Hopkins’ death to a stabbing in nearby George Street the night before.

Another man, who is 40, was hospitalised.

Tributes have been paid to Mr Hopkins who was described as a “loveable pain in the neck”.

Mr Hopkins had spent time in jail and battled with drink and drug problems.

But his friends said he had made huge efforts to turn his life around in the last few months where he had cut down on the booze and hard substances.

An inquest into his death is due to open at Essex Coroner's Court later today.

Anyone with information about Mr Hopkins’ death should contact the North Major Crime team on 101 quoting incident 208 of Monday.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.