THE family of a 'loving' Highbridge man who was found dead in a garden last week have paid tribute to him.

Paul Wells, 39, was found dead on Thursday (June 25) in the Edithmead Lane area.

Avon and Somerset Police launched a murder investigation into his death and officers arrested a 44-year-old man on suspicion of murder.

On Friday evening (June 26), the man was transferred to a secure facility and into the care of mental health services.

A post mortem examination revealed Mr Wells died of stab wounds. 

In a tribute Mr Wells' family, said: “Paul was a loving son, brother, uncle, nephew, godfather, cousin and friend.

“Originally from Middlesbrough in the North East, Paul was very family orientated, big hearted and a hard worker.

“He travelled and lived in places abroad, including Gibraltar for nine years and Sydney in Australia for three years.

"He eventually returned to England and settled down in what Paul would call his forever home – Somerset.

“He was respected and loved by everyone who came into his life.

“Paul had such an infectious personality whereby mostly everyone who met him saw this in him and became a life-long friend.

“Paul was taken from us suddenly all too soon and will be sorely missed by everyone.”

Avon and Somerset Police said Mr Wells' family have asked for privacy at this time.

If you have any information about the incident please call 101 and give the call handler reference number 5220139224.

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form.

No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court or have to speak to police when contacting Crimestoppers.