A family has paid tribute to the much-loved 77-year-old man who was stabbed to death in a crowded marketplace on Sunday.

Hilkiah McLeggan, known as Mac or LLoyde to family and friends, died after the incident at East Street Market in Walworth at around 10:40 am.

In a statement released today, Mr McLeggan’s family said: “Hilkiah McLeggan was a warm, kind and generous man who would do anything for his friends and family.

“He was a hard-working man who worked beyond his retirement because he knew he had more to offer and enjoyed being around colleagues who were also his friends.

“He was a great support to many people and offered help without hesitation to meet their needs. “His family and friends are devastated and are trying to make sense of this terrible event.”

The police were called after it was reported that many people were seriously injured in the market. It was seen at the scene that two people were seriously injured with a knife. They were taken to the hospital and stayed there. One of them is in critical condition.

Detective Chief Inspector Seb Adjei-Addoh, who heads Southwark police, previously praised the traders for bravely catching the knife-wielding man before police arrived at the scene.

Mr McLeggan’s family said: “We would like to thank all the wonderful people at East Street Market who showed such bravery to prevent more lives and hearts from being broken on Remembrance Sunday.

“We express our heartfelt gratitude to those who came to his aid to save him and to those who prayed for him in his last moments. “The family would also like to thank the police for supporting them as they sought privacy and sought privacy as they faced such a tragic, senseless and devastating loss.”

Following the incident, a special monument was erected on East Street in memory of McLeggan, who frequented the market for decades.

The family said: “We extend our condolences to the other victims and their families. We hope they get a positive result and wish them a speedy recovery.”

Musse Ali, 66, of no known address, is charged with one count of murder and two counts of attempted murder.

He appeared at Croydon Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, where he was remanded in custody. He will next defend himself at the Old Bailey on December 10.

Picture above: Hilkiah McLeggan, who was stabbed to death at East Street Market on Sunday (Image: The Met)

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