A DEVASTATED family has paid an emotional tribute to a "loved and respected" 54-year-old man whose death is at the centre of a police investigation.

Tony Gibbons was found seriously injured at an address on Martock, Whiston, on Sunday afternoon and died in an ambulance as he was being taken to hospital.

A Home Office post-mortem examination has ruled his death was caused by wounds to his neck and wrists.

A 55-year-old man, who was arrested on suspicion of murder on Sunday and questioned by police throughout Monday, has been bailed while the police inquiry continues.

Police stressed on Monday that Mr Gibbons’ death is still being treated as "unexplained".

In a statement released via Merseyside Police, Mr Gibbons’ family said: "Tony loved music and going out with friends to the local labour club. Everyone loved him and he was the life and soul everywhere he went.

"Tony as a person was loved and respected by everyone. He'll be sadly missed and always loved by all his family and friends.

"His death leaves a huge hole in our family and we are devastated by this loss.

"We would ask that we are left alone at this time to grieve in peace."

Mr Gibbons was discovered at 2.40pm inside the house. A large scale police presence was called to the scene and a cordon covered the front gate of a house on the street on Monday morning.

Forensic teams could be seen going into the property.

Reports suggest a policeman was also standing outside a building on nearby Dursley, although it is not clear whether that is linked to the investigation that surrounds Mr Gibbons' death.

Police declined to comment over whether they are still searching for a weapon that may have inflicted the injuries to Mr Gibbons.

Anyone with information can contact 0151 777 6516 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

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