THE best brother, a loving uncle and caring son.

The devastated family of Christopher Thompson today spoke for the first time of their heartbreak at losing the 35-year-old.

The body of the former Chantry High School pupil was discovered by a dog walker in Chantry Park on Thursday morning, sparking a murder investigation.

A post-mortem examination carried out by Home Office pathologists revealed Mr Thompson, formerly of London Road, had died as a result of strangulation and assault injuries.

Mum Liz Thompson, of London Road, told The Star, Chris – or Billy as he was known – was “the best son anyone could ask for”.

“He was kind and would do anything for anyone,” his distraught mum added.

“He had the biggest heart anyone could have.

“I love you and miss you so much – you will always be with me forever.”

Meanwhile his sisters Michelle and Nicci remembered the “best brother anyone could ask for”.

“If you ever needed him for absolutely anything he would be there,” added Michelle. “He would do anything for anyone, and never complained.

“He had the biggest heart of anyone I know. I love and miss him so much and he will never leave my thoughts.”

And little sister Nicci told The Star: “Chris was my beautiful brother.

“He was an amazing man, so kind, generous.

“I loved him so, so much and I can’t begin to say how much I respected him, not only was he my brother, he was the only father figure I ever had. I miss him so much, I can’t even begin to say.”

A man and a woman are today in custody after appearing in court charged with the murder of Mr Thompson, a self-employed groundworker.

Christopher Wilson, 33, and Deanna Stanton, 26, both of no fixed abode, appeared at Ipswich Crown Court yesterday charged with murder. They were remanded in custody until their next appearance at the court in Russell Road on February 8.

A 42-year-old man from Ipswich arrested on Thursday in connection with the murder probe has been bailed to return to police on January 8.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the major investigation team at Suffolk police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.