Friends of the young man who died after a night out in Watford said he had a huge heart in school.

Bradley Creswell had a criminal record, but his friends from school say he was turning his life around.

The 21-year-old died in the early hours of Sunday morning after he was found in The Parade with serious head injuries.

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Police said a murder investigation is ongoing and three men have been arrested but not charged.

In February 2014, Bradley was sentenced to three years and two months in prison after he pleaded guilty to causing actual bodily harm and supplying cocaine and dangerous driving.

He was called a "snivelling wretch" by the sentencing judge, and banned from driving for 12 months and must take an extended retest before he can get his licence back.

However, friends said Mr Creswell was turning his life around.

His best friend Sophie Hockey said: "Bradley is and always will be my best friend. He has always had a heart if gold! Bradley wouldn't let anyone he love be upset! He always put a smile on faces.

"I can honestly say he is the most kindest dearest friend of mine. I could write a book of all the memories we have made.

"I will never ever forget him. RIP Brad, I hope your looking down on all of us and keeping us safe. Thinking of you everyday, love you always."

Writing on Facebook, Joe Stevens said: "My boy had a heart of gold. He will be terribly missed."

Princess Katie Amanda Willoughby added: "Bradley was a gentleman and such a caring person.

"I hope they catch the person that killed poor Bradley for his family and friends sake so they can give Bradley a good send off and leave him to rest in peace.

"Also hearing this news that young people are getting killed now days by stabbing or gunshots makes me think what life really about and what we should stop and think what's really important to us all."

Following the incident in the early hours of Sunday, people have said they do not feel safe walking in The Parade.

RadioactiveRant wrote: "When are the police going to do their jobs and enforce s141 of the Licensing At 2003? Bars cashing in on drunks is putting pressure on A&E and unfortunately leading to incidents like this."

RRP90 added: "Trouble up the high street happens too often. I was walking up there at 3am Sunday morning and I had three or four groups of lads try and cause trouble with me and a friend.

"When I was 18/19 I would have retaliated and could of landed myself into trouble. Police do not move drunk people on quick enough and the clubs all close at the same time.

"They need to stagger the chuck out times, then the police will be able to cope with the sudden rush of drunken teenagers, the taxi rank at the top of town is like a war zone."

Watford Chief Inspector Paul Sandwell said: “We will always strive, through working with our partners and local businesses, to ensure that people who live in, or visit Watford can have a safe and enjoyable time.

Whilst I cannot go into any level of detail about resourcing for operational reasons, I would like to reassure the community that it is something which is frequently reviewed.

Anyone who witnesses any suspicious activity or has concerns should contact police on the non-emergency number 101. If you witness a crime in progress, always dial 999.”

Did you know Bradley? You can leave a tribute below or email charlotte.ikonen@london.newsquest.co.uk.