THE family of a man who died after being assaulted in Brindley Place have described how they are ‘devastated and heartbroken to lose such an amazing, thoughtful and kind man’.

Matthew Carroll, fondly known as Matty, was out with his son and some of his friends on Saturday evening (29 August) when he was attacked.

Police have launched a murder investigation and have appealed for any witnesses to get in touch. 

The 50-year-old’s family said: “We are all devastated and heartbroken to lose such an amazing, thoughtful and kind man.

“He had a heart of gold and would put anyone before himself.

"He was loving father, always devoted to his children. He’s always been a hard worker and enjoyed going the gym.

“He was a social and friendly person, who loved being around family and friends. He always made people feel welcome and made people laugh.

"Our hearts are shattered into a thousand pieces, we are all still in shock, it doesn’t seem real.

“Our lives will never be the same without him.”

Matthew was out with his son and some of his friends, who were involved in a fight just off Broad Street, at around 1.30am.

He was taken to hospital with head injuries and was sadly pronounced dead later that day. A post mortem examination will take place today (31 August).

Extensive CCTV enquiries are ongoing and we’re really keen to hear from anyone who has any information who’s not already spoken to us.

Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Mobberley, from our homicide team, said: “We continue to support Matthew’s family at this really sad time.

“We’re working hard to understand exactly what happened and find those responsible.”

We’re keen to speak to those who were in Brindley Place at the time and may have been filming what happened on their mobile phone.

Anyone with information is asked to message us on Live Chat via our website or call 101 quoting log 285 of 29 August. Alternatively you can ring the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.