Tributes paid to 'hero' who died trying to break up fight outside pub

A 24-year-old man believed to have been trying to break up a fight outside a pub near Dudley, has died after suffering fatal head injuries.

It happened outside The Clifton Wetherspoon pub in Sedgley, shortly before midnight on Saturday.

The man was pronounced dead at the scene.

West Midlands Police has launched a murder inquiry and is appealing for any witnesses to contact them.

A spokesman for the Wetherspoon pub chain said door staff at The Clifton had gone to the aid of a man, putting him in the recovery position, after allowing another victim into the pub for his own safety.

The victim's family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

A forensic search is being carried out close to the pub and officers are reviewing CCTV from the area.

Detective Inspector Laura Harrison said officers have spoken with a number of witnesses but are urging anyone who may have information to get in contact.

Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon said staff at the pub had tried to help an injured man after an assault near a taxi rank.

Mr Gershon said: "The pub's CCTV shows a group of males by the taxi rank at the side of the pub attacking another male.

"The individual managed to get away and ran to the front of the pub where he was let in for his own safety.

"The group then started attacking another male. Once the group dispersed, door staff at the pub went to assist him on the floor putting him in the recovery position."

Mr Gershon added: "No members of the group or the two men who were attacked had been in the pub."

Tributes have been posted online calling the man who died a 'hero'.

One post said, “RIP. Your baby will be taught what a real man his dad was. You’re ina better place.”A second read, “RIP, you are a hero, fly high.”Another said, “Rest in peace bro. Will never be forgotten, condolencesto your loved ones.”While a fourth said, “RIP mate, will be sadly missed.”