Entrepreneur and former The Only Way Is Essex star Mick Norcross was found dead at the age of 57.

The police were called to his home in Bolvan, EssexAt 3:15 pm on Thursday, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Essex Police said his death was not treated as suspicious and a coroner’s file would be prepared.

Norcross is best known for being the owner of The Sugar Hut nightclub in Brentwood, where he is Known It was filmed regularly in its early days.

He made his debut in the second series in 2011, with his son Kirk, 32, who is part of the original cast.

He left Norcross in 2013, claiming that his company’s involvement in the program had damaged his reputation.

Words of tribute poured in after the news of his death spread, with former TOWIE colleagues describing him as a “gentleman” and a “legend of Essex”.

Gemma Collins, 39, posted a photo of the two of them together on Instagram with the caption: “Always a man. I’m totally shocked and saddened by the news. My thoughts and prayers go to the Kirk family and her friends very tragically.

“The memories of the early days of the Sugar Hut and the great photo ops you have will never be forgotten. You never know what someone is going through when you were such a good person.”

The pair dated them briefly during their time on the show.

Ex-TOWIE star James Argent, 33, said on Twitter, “A gentleman and a very good man! RIP Mick. So many great memories, so sad! My thoughts are with his family.”

Mario Falcon, 32, wrote: “Tear my friend. You have been the perfect gentlemen and I am grateful that I have the privilege of having you in my life.”

Sports promoter Eddie Hearn, presenter Dennis Van Uten, and Chef James Martin were among the celebrities who offered their condolences.

Essex Police said in a statement: “We were summoned to an address in Bulvan just before 3:15 pm on Thursday January 21. Unfortunately, it was announced that a man had died inside.

“His death will not be treated as suspicious, and a file for the forensic doctor will be prepared,” he added.

Norcross was survived by his three sons and three grandchildren.

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