The family of a young father who died following an attack near Richmond Bridge in the early hours of Saturday have spoken of their heartbreak.

Reece Newcombe was attacked at the junction of the bridge and Hill Rise, close to the Richmond Odeon, at around 4am, according to the Metropolitan Police.

Officers attempted CPR at the scene and Reece was rushed to hospital, however he passed away on Saturday with his family by his side.

Reece, aged 31, from Feltham, became a father to a baby girl earlier this year.

A good boxer in his own right, he was well known in the local boxing community through his association with the Westside Boxing Club, where he helped train a number of famous names, including former footballer and TV pundit, Ian Wright, for a charity boxing bout.

His father John Holland and grandfather, Harry, have been at the heart of the local community, helping and training hundreds of youngsters over the years with many going on to achieve high honours.

They also helped train the actor, Jack O'Connell, who recently starred as Paddy Mayne in the BBC series 'SAS: Rogue Heroes', and the new film adaptation of Lady Chatterly's Lover.

In a message posted on social media, Reece's family said: "This is the hardest thing for us to write.

"We are truly heartbroken at the loss of our son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin.

"Words cannot describe our grief. Our family is broken and never will be the same again without Reece's larger than life personality.

"As a family, we will make sure his darling daughter Misse will know all about her Daddy and how much he loved her and how much he was loved by everyone.

"Everyone that crossed paths with Reece always has a funny story to tell about his crazy antics."

They added: "We appreciate everyone's love and support. RIP our beloved Reecey Bear."

Reece's family and friends are planning to hold a 'memory walk' in his honour. It is due to take place on Sunday, December 4.

It will start at noon from the car park opposite at Pools on the Park, Richmond, with the group walking across Richmond Green to Richmond Bridge, where flowers will be laid.

The Metropolitan Police believe the incident was filmed by onlookers on mobile phones and they have asked for witnesses to come forward.

A spokesman said: "A murder investigation is under way in Richmond.

"Police were called at around 04:00hrs on Saturday, November 26, to a fight on Richmond Bridge.

"Officers attended and found a man, aged in his early 30s, suffering serious injuries. Officers administered CPR prior to the arrival of paramedics before the man was taken to hospital.

"Despite their efforts the man died later in the morning. His next of kin have been informed; they are being supported by specialist officers."

No arrests have been made at this time.

Detective Chief Inspector Katherine Goodwin is leading she investigation. She said: "We believe a number of people watched the incident unfold and some onlookers may have recorded footage on their mobile phones.

"Anyone who has yet to speak to us is urged to come forward immediately.

"My team are working to provide the deceased man's family with answers and the public could have valuable information that will help our investigation."

Chief Superintendent Lis Chapple, lead for policing in Richmond, said: "My thoughts are with the man who died and his family.

"We will do everything we can to support our colleagues in Specialist Crime as they work to establish what has happened here.

"A scene will remain in place and my officers will remain posted at the scene and in the area to speak to local people about any concerns they have, or information they might want to share."

The incident happened close to Richmond Bridge, near the Nando's restaurant, and the entire area was closed off through Saturday for forensic examination of the murder scene.

Anyone with information that could assist police should call 101 or tweet @MetCC ref CAD 1099/26 Nov.

To remain 100% anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

The terrible tragedy has seen many friends of the family to take to social media and express their sympathies and heartbreak for the family.

The tragedy has renewed calls for the return of a police station in Richmond, which has been increasingly blighted with antisocial behaviour and violence around the weekends.