Family pay ‘warm, kind and generous’ tribute to south London stabbing victim

The family of the 77-year-old man stabbed to death at a historic market in south London have described him as “warm, kind and generous”.

Hilkiah McLeggan, from Southwark, died at the scene following reports that several people had been stabbed in Walworth’s East Street area on Sunday.

The other two men remain in hospital, one of whom is in critical condition.

Musse Ali, 66, appeared at Croydon Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday charged with murder, two counts of attempted murder and possession of a knife in connection with the incident.

The Metropolitan Police said it was not a terrorist attack and urged the public not to speculate about any potential motive.

In a statement shared by the force on Friday, Mr McLeggan’s family said: “Hilkiah McLeggan (Mac or Lloyde to his friends and family) was a warm, kind and generous man who would do anything for his friends and family.

“He was a hard-working man who worked beyond his retirement because he knew he had more to offer and enjoyed being around colleagues who were also his friends.

“He was a great support to many people and offered help without hesitation to meet their needs.

“His family and friends are devastated and are struggling to make sense of this terrible event.

“The family would like to express their gratitude to everyone who expressed their condolences and to everyone who held a private memorial service at the East Street Market, which he frequented for decades.”

The family thanked “all the wonderful people” at East Street Market, the London Ambulance Service and police for their bravery in catching the suspect and asked for privacy “as we come to terms with such a tragic, senseless and devastating loss”.

The statement said: “The family encourages those affected to seek help and support if needed.

“We extend our best wishes to the other victims and their families. We hope for a positive outcome and wish them a speedy recovery.”

Ali, of no fixed address, will appear at the Old Bailey for a plea hearing on December 10.