Man fatally stabbed was a 'loveable, bubbly lad'

The family of a man stabbed to death in Devon have described him as a "loveable, cheeky, bubbly lad".

Denva Smith, 24, died at the scene after suffering a single stable wound in Exmouth at about 00:45 BST on 31 May. His body was found in a garden in Ashfield Close.

A family tribute said Mr Smith, who was a father, could "brighten up a room instantly" and would be missed by everyone.

Five men - Zac Davies, 23, of Hawthorn Grove, Exmouth; Dylan Chadwick, 23, of Cambourne Avenue, St Helens; Ben Mason, 23, of no fixed abode; Thomas Ward, 24, of Russell Walk, Exeter; and Ben Helliker, 26, of Halsdon Road, Exmouth - have been charged with murder and are due to appear at Exeter Crown Court on 18 July.

A large cordon was set up following the incident while officers carried out investigations.

In their tribute, Mr Smith's family said he would be "truly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing" him.

"Denva could brighten up a room instantly, with his cheeky ways, full of energy, with a talkative attitude," his family said.

"Denva was a beautiful boy with a kind soul who everyone couldn't help but love. We love you more than you'll ever know darling.

"You were such a loveable, cheeky, bubbly lad. Everyone who met you fell in love with you, a real life Tigger character."

The police said four people had also been released under investigation after being arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.

Mr Smith's family added it was hard to face the fact he would no longer be with them.

"We didn't expect to be saying goodbye to you so soon, you still had your whole life ahead of you," they said.

"You will be missed by everyone who loved you more than you ever knew. We love you Denva so much."

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