Tributes have been paid to a man from Basildon who was found dead in his home.

The inquest into Ben Landers opened today.

The 29-year-old, from Basildon, was discovered dead his home in Basildon on February 14 this year.

His provisional cause of death is asphyxiation.

On his Facebook page, those who cared for him posted touching tributes.

Sarah Anne wrote: "Can’t believe you're no longer with us, you was such a lovely bloke always so kind a gentle Giant Ben. 

"Will always remember you. 

"Thinking of your mum Emma and Charlie and rest of the Family R.I.P lovely man."

Tony Harris posted: "Big love to all of bens friends and family.

"This lad was an absolute legend I'm glad I got to spend my school days best friends with such a gent - RIP brother.

"You maybe gone, but will never be forgotten."

His step sister, Carly Langley, wrote: "You were a ray of sunshine Ben. One of the kindest souls I had the privilege to know.

"I'm proud to have called you my step brother.

"Your happy go lucky personality and smile will be missed so much. Rest in peace babe."

The police have said there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

Ben Landers was also known to the Essex Partnership University Trust.

During the inquest at the coroner's court in Essex, the Senior Coroner, Caroline Beasley-Murray, listened to the evidence given to her and decided where to take the case.

No conclusion was given and a full inquest into his death is due to be held on August 11.

Mrs Beasley-Murray said: “I am opening this inquest.

“I shall require a post-mortem report and the toxicology report.

“I am told he did have some involvement from EPUT. I shall require a statement from them.

“His family are also invited to write in if they want to.

“The matter is open and I am happy with this decision.”