'Local hero' killed in pub assault raised £16,000 for the NHS by singing on Facebook Live

A man who died after a serious assault at a pub has been named as 37-year-old Robert Hiscoe.

Police were called to The Butterbowl pub in Farnley, Leeds, in the early hours of Sunday 5 May to reports of a person injured in an altercation.

Mr Hiscoe, from New Farnley, was taken to hospital but later died.

Nathaniel Philip, 35, of no fixed abode, has been charged with murder and appeared in court on Tuesday.

He was remanded into custody to appear again at Leeds Crown Court on Thursday 9 May.

Several tributes to Mr Hiscoe, who was a painter and decorator, have been posted on social media, describing him as a "local hero" who was "loved by all".

A talented singer, he performed Facebook Live concerts during the Covid pandemic to support NHS Charities Together, raising over £16,000.

  • Robert Hiscoe (seated) singing with friend Nathan Daniels. Video courtesy of Wendy Daniels

Posting on the New Farnley Cricket Club Facebook page, Noel Bullock said everyone there was "deeply saddened and devastated" by the news.

"Rob was a local hero and very popular character around New Farnley and the wider Leeds community, fondly remembered during lockdown for entertaining everyone 'Vera Lynn' style with his nightly singing shows that lasted well into the early hours of the morning until the bottle of gin was no more, raising thousands of pounds for the NHS.

"Rob sung many times at the club, brightening up parties and celebrations with his wonderful voice making the events special and memorable, he also brightened up many living and dining rooms, hallway, stairs, landings, bedrooms and kitchens with his wonderful decorating skills," he said.

Another friend, Nathan Daniels, said Mr Hiscoe was often the "soul and party" of the pub where they had worked together.

"Absolutely heartbroken and will miss our songs together," he said.

"Till [sic] we meet again my mate. Heaven has gained one of the best."

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