Eastbourne Murder - Tributes

The family of the man beaten to death outside a convenience store in Eastbourne last Thursday have been paying tribute to him.

The partner of 46-year-old store manager Chris Poole has described him as "her soulmate and best friend and also the great father figure to all our children".

His mother, Diane, said Chris's death was "such a waste of a lovely young man who gave such a lot to so many and who was loved so dearly by us all".

A 15-year-old boy and a 19-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder remain in police custody. A 13-year-old boy, who was also arrested on suspicion of murder, has been released on police bail until 3 September, pending further enquiries.

He has been given conditional bail which includes conditions not to enter Eastbourne unless answering bail or meeting his solicitor and a curfew at an address outside of Eastbourne between 8pm and 8am.

Detective Inspector Wendy Burton, from the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team, said: "It's so tremendously sad that this man has died, an absolute tragedy. Our heartfelt condolences go to his family.

"We are doing all we can to learn about what happened that night, the circumstances that led to this attack and now his untimely death. I would appeal to anyone who was in the area last night and who may have any information, however small, to come forward. They should call 101 quoting Operation Delaware or anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."