Heartbreaking tributes have been posted online to Ashley Woolley, who was stabbed to death in a Chelmsford park.

The touching messages are being left on Facebook and Twitter by the devastated friends and family of the young man, who was stabbed to death in Oaklands Park, in Chelmsford at about 3.15pm yesterday.

He was rushed to Broomfield Hospital but later sadly died.

Several Facebook tribute pages have been set up in his memory and one, RIP Ashley Woolley X, has already had more than 1,200 “likes”.

A message posted by the creator of the page said: “Positive memories are what we need at this incredibly sad time.

“Let's celebrate what a great life he lived, although it was short lived I think a lot of people can agree that he made a difference to so many people’s lives and for that we will be eternally grateful x.”

Another page, RIP Ash Woolley, has been inundated with comments in tribute of the teen, with many people sharing photos and memories of the youngster and posting messages of support for his family.

Daryl Saunders wrote: “He was the funny kind caring, was always there for people when they were down, he would make you laugh.

“Just remember guys he is always going to be in your hearts.”

Vicki Wright said: “I cannot even begin to imagine how your family are feeling this morning.

“The devastating news that a mum has lost her son in such a horrific way is pure madness.

“RIP young man x.”

Callum Dunbar added: “RIP mate, taken too soon soon many cruel people in this world!

“My thoughts are with your family and close friends.”

Robert Virgoe posted: “My thoughts are with all of Ash's friends and family especially at a time this close to Christmas.

“I may not have known him that well, but never have I heard anybody speak ill of Ash or say anything bad about him.

“He was always smiling whenever I saw him and just made you feel happy when you saw his smile.

“You've touched so many people and you will be missed.”

Twitter users also expressed their shock, using the hash tag #RipAsh, with a user named Tomo tweeting: "Chelmsford is becoming such a horrible place #RIPASH".

Rosie Williams ‏said: "This world absolutely sickens me, taken before his time #RIPAsh."

Rachel Nye ‏added: "One of the nicest boy i have ever met RIP Ash you did not deserve to die so young no one does especially to be murdered #ripash".

Detectives arrested a 17-year-old boy from Chelmsford and a 19-year-old man from Maldon in the early hours on this morning on suspicion of murder.

They are currently in police custody.

Police are continuing to appeal for any witnesses to contact detectives on 101 or email scdappeals@essex.pnn.police.uk