Son of Norfolk murder victim Peter Wrighton describes father as ‘mild-mannered and gentle’ man

East Harling murder. Picture : ANTONY KELLY (Image: archant 2017)

The body of Mr Wrighton, a married father and grandfather, from Banham, was discovered in woodland near East Harling on Saturday, August 5.

A post-mortem examination revealed he died from multiple stab wounds to the neck and head.

In a statement, family members thanked the community and police for its support following his murder.

Meanwhile, Mr Wrighton's son, who has not been named, said: 'My dad was the sweetest, most mild-mannered, gentle old boy you could wish to meet.

Alexander Palmer, 23, who has been charged with the murder of Peter Wrighton. Picture Facebook. (Image: Facebook)

'To have him taken from us in such a way is, at the moment, too much for us to comprehend.'

A statement from Mr Wrighton's family said: 'We would like to say a big thank you to Norfolk Police and the officers from surrounding forces who have worked and continue to work tirelessly on behalf of him.

'We would also like to thank all the people who have assisted the police, it is greatly appreciated.

'We have received so many cards, flowers and kind words from those who knew Peter and it has been a great comfort to us at this time. He would have been so touched to know that so many people thought so highly of him.'

The Street in East Harling, near to the scene where Mr Wrighton was attacked, remains closed and is likely to for the coming days while the as investigation continues.

Police said searches by forensic officers in connection with the investigation were also continuing at a handful of locations including Dereham Road, Bawdeswell.

A search of a property in Freesia Way, Cringleford, was expected to come to a close on Friday.

Alexander Palmer, 23, of Freesia Way, Cringleford, who served with the British Army between 2010 and 2015, appeared at Norwich Crown Court on Tuesday (August 15), after being charged with murder.