Past colleagues of Bromley murder victim Ronald Parsons have paid tribute to a “genuine and honest” individual.

The 71-year-old was found dead at his home at Laurel Court on Cambridge Road last week, and former co-workers at Rydal Precision Tools Ltd. in Swanley have come forward to pay their respects.

Managing director Barry Smith, who lives in the Swanley area, said Mr Parsons worked for him as an engineer for over two decades and described him as a “very good employee”.

He said: “He worked with me for quite a number of years. He was conscientious and thoroughly reliable.

“He did all that was expected of him – he was very genuine and honest.

“I heard about it (incident) through another party. It’s horrible – very shocking.”

Mr Parsons was found dead at his home on Sunday March 2. Daniel Atkins, 30, also of Laurel Court, who was released by Oxleas Mental Health Trust two days earlier under a care scheme, has been charged with his murder.

Following the news another former colleague of Mr Parsons, Tony Loveridge, 65, spoke of the tragic loss.

He said: "I'm so shocked - it's devastating to hear. I've known Ron for years.

"He was one of the good guys, a thoroughly decent bloke. He wouldn't hurt a fly. I think it's tragic."

A third former staff member of Rydals, who asked not to be named but is known as 'Mac', said it was difficult to come to terms with.

The 74-year-old said: "It was very shocking indeed - it was hard news to take.

"It’s really sad, such a bad thing to happen. I just can’t believe it.

"He was quite a popular chap at work, but he was very quiet. I visited his flat in Bromley many years ago - it was kept beautifully".

‘Mac’ added he had not spoken to Mr Parsons recently, but mentioned while they worked together they used to visit railways and said he used to have a keen interest in the Royal Air Force.

Mr Atkins is due to appear at The Old Bailey in May. Investigations continue and the cause of death is currently unconfirmed.