THE family of a man who was fatally stabbed in a quiet country lane have paid tribute to their "beloved" Ben.

Ben Hardwidge's father Chris, mother Vinna and brother James, 20, of The Oaks, Berden, said they were overwhelmed by the number of floral tributes and cards, and were deeply touched by the kind words of many people.

In a family statement issued to the Citizen, they said: "We would like to thank everyone for their kind words, thoughts and support at this terribly sad time. Our days have been brightened by the continuous flow of visitors to our home, who all have loving memories of Ben."

Ben, 22, of Ashdale, Bishop's Stortford, suffered multiple stab wounds during an incident in Birchanger Lane, Birchanger, and died in hospital on March 2.

He was born on July 11, 1981, and lived in and around the town all his life. He moved with his family to Berden 11 years ago but moved back to Bishop's Stortford when he bought his first house, in Ashdale, 18 months ago.

Ben was a pupil at Howe Green House School, Great Hallingbury, and then studied at St Edmund's College, Dane End.

After leaving school at 16 he worked as a salesman at his father's company, Bell Press, in Bishop's Stortford.

Hundreds of bouquets lay by the Birchanger Lane-Duck End junction in memory of Ben.

The family said they took comfort from words such as: "A great man who will always be remembered, one of a kind, and a polite and charming gentleman."

The family added: "To learn that our son meant so much to so many has helped us through this difficult time."

A website, www.rememberben.com, has been opened in Ben's honour for friends and family to pay their respects and share their memories.

  • Louis Cartwright, 18, of Main Road, Ford End, near Dunmow, has been cnarged with murder and attempted murder.