Family pay tribute to man who died after assault outside Leicestershire pub | UK news

Relatives of a 66-year-old man who died days after being punched outside a village pub paid tribute to the “dedicated family man”.

David Darke, who died in hospital on Saturday, was injured outside the Crown Inn in Appleby Magna, Leicestershire, on December 21.

Darke’s family said in a statement: “Dave was a much-loved father of three daughters and a proud grandfather of three boys. He was a much-loved brother and a dear friend. Dave will live on in our hearts, minds and souls forever.”

“He was a strong, active, intelligent and kind person, a friend to all. A devoted family man with a deep passion for life, nature, outdoors and hiking. His life was cut tragically short and he is now reunited with his loving, caring parents. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.”

A 36-year-old man who was initially arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm was re-arrested on Saturday on suspicion of murder and remained in custody, Leicestershire police said.