A TRIAL into the alleged murder of a much-loved father and aspiring rapper is set to start and is expected to last three weeks.

Sheldon McKay, 25, and Phoenix Lee, 19, of no fixed abode, are alleged to have killed 22-year-old Alinjavwa Siwale in December last year.

Appearing via videolink from Chelmsford Prison on Friday, McKay and Lee listened as Judge Patricia Lynch confirmed a trial will begin on, August 9.

Both defendants deny murder and causing grievous bodily harm.

Judge Patricia Lynch QC said: “Mr McKay and Mr Lee thank you both very much for attending today, the court’s grateful.

“As you’ve heard the case is going off now for a fortnight, then when we come back, the trial will start and you will be brought to court.”

Mr Siwale, who was described as a “free spirit” who could “enter a room and brighten it with his smile”, was found with stab wounds in Affleck Road, Colchester, shortly after 12.15am on December 11.

Gazette: Scene - the police cordon in place in Affleck Road, Greenstead, in December last yearScene - the police cordon in place in Affleck Road, Greenstead, in December last year

Despite the efforts of paramedics, he died at the scene.

In a tribute after his death, his family said: “Our lives have been changed forever.

“We are heartbroken, still in shock and angry.

“Nothing can ever prepare you for the loss of a child.

“It is painful and no mother should ever have to go through this.

“Njavwa had a big heart and made friends so easily, sometimes not in the right circles, and was true to each and every one of them.

“He supported them, guided them and made them happy.

“Njavwa loved his brothers to bits and was an amazing father to his son.”

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Mr Siwale was a talented rapper, going by the stage name Swizzino.

His latest track, called Mr Essex, amassed thousands of views online, with the video being filmed at locations in Colchester.

His family said he had big dreams for the future and was loved by his many friends.

They said: “He was a free spirit who lived in the present and on his terms.

“He had the ability to enter a room and brighten it with his smile, his attitude, his infectious laugh or just his presence.

“He also had a passion for football and had continued to play for Great Notley Football Club.

“There are no words to describe the pain we are going through as a family."

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