A TEENAGE soldier who died following a fight at a Darlington nightclub was today named by police.

Andrew Gibson was due to fly out to Afghanistan for a tour of duty in January, after spending Christmas with his family.

The 19-year-old, based at Catterick Garrison in North Yorkshire, had been on a night out with friends when he was punched in Escapade, on Gladstone Street, in the early hours of last Saturday morning.

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He was put on a life-support machine at James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough but died early yesterday morning.

Mr Gibson's parents, from the Glasgow area, this morning paid tribute to their son, describing him as a polite, inoffensive young man who had never been in any trouble.

Police have launched a murder inquiry and will be present at the club tonight in a bid to speak with witnesses.

Two 16-year-olds and a 17-year-old, all from the Darlington area, have been arrested and bailed in connection with the incident.

Det Supt Neil Malkin said: "Andrew was a young man with his life in front of him. He is now dead and it is only right that everybody should help in this investigation."

Anyone with information about the incident, contact the police through 0345-60-60-365 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.