Dozens of tributes have been left on Facebook in memory of the former John Kyrle High School pupil. Baller, as he was known by friends, was a popular man who was a talented cook. He had worked at several pubs and restaurants in the town.

Michelle Hodges said:?"a friend to everybody, i will miss him and so will the whole of ross. God bless you baller xx"

Emma Bishop said:?"he would always have the time to stop and talk to u he was a pleasent bloke and will b remembered for his cheeky smile and will b missed by many."

Nathan Gardiner said:?'He really was a brilliant bloke, didn't have a bad bone in his body. It's a tragic loss and he will be missed by many people. R.I.P Baller."

Charlotte Reynolds:?"We had some great times at the Hope. You were a sweet lad, and will be missed. RIP James xxx"

Emma Preece added:?"A young man to be proud of. Will be missed.. he had so much to live for... Hugs to all his family at this very sad time... xxx"

A statement was released by his family which said that James will be missed by his mother, Pauline, his father Richard, his elder brother Andrew, and his nine-year-old daughter, as well as his extended family and friends. "James loved fishing on the River Wye and when you asked what he had done that day he would say, 'I had a good day's fishing'.

Christopher Vivian, 22, from Ross has been charged with the murder of James Ball. He appeared at a preliminary hearing at Worcester Crown Court on Tuesday, April 5th.