Touching tributes have been pouring in for a “big-hearted” and “lovely” man who tragically died after an early hours attack outside a Salford pub.
Greater Manchester Police said that the incident took place outside a pub on Liverpool Road in Irlam at around 2:40 am on Sunday, 29 March.
Police and paramedics were called following an “altercation” involving “several men.” During the altercation, a man sustained serious injuries and was taken to hospital.
The victim was pronounced dead on Tuesday, 31 March and has been named in tributes paid by family and friends as Ben Wright.
They describe him as a “selfless” and “big-hearted” man “who will never be forgotten.”
In a message posted on social media, his relative Kasey Payne said that surgery had been carried out for Ben’s organs to be donated to save the lives of others before he passed away.
“I miss you Uncle Ben. I will always love you and you will never know how much we all loved you. My hero. My best friend. My brother,” he wrote.
The venue, Dessie’s Place, near to where the attack was reported, also posted an emotional statement: “It’s with heavy hearts we share the sad news that our dear friend Ben has passed away. Ben wasn’t just someone who worked with us he was part of our family.
“He loved the pub, the people in it, and all the regulars who walked through those doors. He was one of us… not just a regular, but one of the best and everybody knew and loved him.
“His smile, his laugh, and his presence brought so much life into the place, and it simply won’t be the same without him.
“We will miss him more than words can ever say, and he will never ever be forgotten. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family at this incredibly difficult time and we’re sending love right to you.”
Band NXMAD added to the heartwarming tributes: “We are incredibly sad to learn of the passing of our friend Ben Wright.
“Ben was a kind-hearted soul who was always ready to help those closest to him with advice, a kind word, drinks or comfort.
“Ben was always there offering support to us and many bands within the local scene.
“We recorded our first 2 records in his house whilst in between takes he would play his acoustic guitar and make us all laugh with stories of his latest mischievous adventures.
“He was a deeply intelligent and talented person and had an infectious grin which never failed to make us smile.
It’s so hard to believe we won’t see that again.
“Thank you for the support you gave us in the early years, Ben. You’ll be greatly missed by us, as well as many others.
Much love.”
In a public post, Gary Harkin mourned the death of a “brilliant human.”
He added: “His signature giant grin lives rent-free in my head forever, and that’s how I’m going to remember him, full of life and mischief. A man with a good heart, and a warrior spirit.
“With each wonderful person that departs this life, I’m somehow reminded to live my own life a little better, something I’ve been struggling to do. So, here’s to you Ben, you’ll be missed by many. Rest in power. See you on the other side.”
