Family’s moving tribute to ‘kind, funny’ father killed after punch in the head during Butlin’s bar fight
The family of a man killed in a fight in a bar at a Butlin’s holiday resort have paid tribute to him as a “generous, kind and funny man”.
Michael Loughlin, from Barton-le-Clay in Bedfordshire, died in hospital on June 18 – four days after suffering a punch to the head at Butlin’s Bognor Regis site.
The 52-year-old’s family said on Wednesday: “Mick was a beloved partner, father, granddad, brother and uncle.
"He was a man who deeply loved his family and his family loved, doted and depended upon him.
“We are all truly lost without this generous, kind and funny man. He was the person we all went to in times of confusion and he never failed to give the right advice.”
Mr Loughlin’s family said he was a dedicated supporter of Luton Town FC and had been “over the moon” at their recent promotion.
The family added: “To put it simply, Mick lived life to its fullest.
"He never missed an opportunity to try new things and he had so much to live for.
"He achieved a great deal in his life and had so much more he wanted to see and do.
“To find the right words to describe our loss is impossible.
"A piece of our hearts has been lost and can never be replaced.
“We will carry our memories of him in our hearts forever.”
Sussex Police said previously that Mr Loughlin had been punched in the face and fell to the ground during an altercation involving several people.
Detective Chief Inspector Andy Wolstenholme, of Sussex Police’s Major Crime Team, called on any witnesses to come forward.
He said: “The bar was very busy at the time of the assault and we believe many of those present would have witnessed the assault and the aftermath.
“We have spoken to some witnesses who were present at the time, but we would be keen to speak to anyone who hasn’t yet made contact with us.”
A 31-year-old man from Wandsworth, south west London, was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and later bailed until July 13.
A Butlin’s spokesperson said last week: “We are very saddened to hear this terrible news and our thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends.
“We have offered our full assistance to the police in their inquiries throughout the investigation and will continue to do so.”
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Sussex Police either online or by calling 101 quoting Operation Brockton.
Alternatively, people can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.