EIGHT of the ten people arrested in connection with the murder of James Attfield have been released without charge.

Several have been on bail for many months including seven on suspicion of murder.

James 'Jim' Attfield, 33, of East Bay, was stabbed 102 times and died shortly before 6am on Saturday, March 29.

He was found on the path between Colchester's Castle Park, Guildford Road and East Hill.

A 19-year-old man from Colchester, originally arrested on suspicion of murder, has had his bail extended into next year.

A 23-year-old woman from Ipswich arrested in connection with the investigation will answer bail tomorrow.

Det Chief Insp Simon Werrett said: "I would urge anyone who has any information about what might have happened to James to get in contact with Essex Police."

Among those released without charge are a 27-year-old man and woman who have been on bail on suspicion of murder for eight months.

Also two 33-year-old men arrested in connection with this and another serious assault.

Others released without charge include a 57-year-old man and 31-year-old man from Colchester and an 18-year-old man and 25-year-old woman with connections to Southend.

Father-of-five Jim Attfield was last seen having a drink in River Lodge shortly after 10pm.

He left shortly after and there were no confirmed sightings until his body was discovered eight hours later.

Several potential witnesses or suspects have still not come forward.

Anyone with information call 01245 282103 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

You can also email scdappeals@essex.pnn.police.uk