THE family of a man who died following an assault in Stretford have paid tribute to him.

Officers were called to reports of a disturbance at the Melville Hotel, located on the junction of Melville Road and Barton Road at about 8.30pm on Friday, April 12.

They found 29-year-old Gavin Brown with serious injuries. He was taken to hospital, but died.

Three men – aged 52, 39 and 30 – were arrested on suspicion of a section 18 assault, but have since been released under investigation.

In a statement, the family of 29-year-old Gavin Brown said: “Gavin was a son, brother, dad, uncle, nephew and cousin.

“He had a really wide range of friends and was loved by everybody. If he was your friend; he was a true friend to you.

“He had a big heart and will be missed by everybody who knew him.”

The family are struggling to come to terms with Gavin’s death and ask for privacy at this time.

Police are treating Gavin’s death as murder and are continuing to appeal for information.

Detective Inspector Terry Chatterton from GMP’s Trafford borough said: “Sadly the worst has happened and Gavin lost his fight for life.

“My thoughts go out to his family and friends and we will continue to help them in whatever way we can, and get them the answers they deserve.

“Our investigation is ongoing and we are continuing to appeal for anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward. Any information, no matter how small, could be vital to our investigation.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 7747, quoting incident number 2209 of 12/04/19. Reports can also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.