TEAM-MATES of a popular footballer who died over the bank holiday weekend have paid tribute to “one of life’s nice guys”.

Martyn Grimwood, of Epping Way, Witham, died at Chelmsford’s Broomfield Hospital following a incident in Braintree Road, Witham, on Sunday, at about 12.50am.

The 33-year-old, who is believed to have been a passenger in a private hire vehicle, was found in the road with serious head injuries.

Mr Grimwood, an engineer with Capital Highway Consulting, in Chelmsford, played for Sunday league football team Braintree Old Boys.

He scored for the team in a cup semi-final this season, and his team-mates have vowed to go on and win the cup for him.

Tributes have been posted online.

Friend Scott Miller said Mr Grimwood was “a real gentleman” and a “loving son, brother and uncle”.

He added: “He was one of my long-term best friends. I knew him from the age of about ten, possibly younger.

“I played football with Martyn from Kelvedon under-18s all the way through to Kelvedon first team and most of my Sunday football with Kelvedon, Crittalls, Orange Sports, Boars Sports and Braintree Old Boys.

“He will be sadly missed by a lot of friends that he had made throughout the years.

“Rest in peace mate – love you always.”

David Whiteside said: “Our hearts go out to you and your family. You’ll always been in ours. We will miss you, Grimmer.

“Cup final – we will do it for you.”

Friend Lee Holland said: “It was a pleasure playing football alongside Grimmer for 11 years.

“He was a great leader as well as a great player. We’re going to miss him on and off the pitch.”

Tracy Lieberman, honorary secretary at Braintree Old Boys, said: “He was always a happy face to see on a Sunday morning, even in the cold and wet.

“He would be there to play every week with old and new friends. Some old friends he has played with for many years.

“Martyn was a strong striker who always put his point across.

“He will be sadly missed, as he has played a major part in getting us to the final next week.”