TWO people arrested in a murder-style investigation into the death of a North-East man have been released on police bail.

The man, 34, and woman, 32, were questioned by police after Darlington man Maurice Shotton, known as Wayne, died following a fracas in one of the town's bars.

Police want to speak to anyone who saw the events in the Tap and Spile, in Bondgate, Darlington, on Saturday night.

Mr Shotton, 45, a father of two adult sons, had been drinking in the pub with his wife, Jane, before the incident took place, at about 11.40pm.

An argument is believed to have broken out in the pub, which spilled outside.

Mr Shotton, who lived in Berkeley Road, in the town, was punched in the head and fell down unconscious.

Despite paramedics' attempts to resuscitate him, he died.

A post-mortem examination revealed he died of a brain haemmorhage.

The two people arrested were bailed yesterday afternoon pending inquiries.

Police have spoken to several witnesses, but are keen to hear from anyone who saw the argument at the bar.

Last night, Mrs Shotton said: "This has devastated our lives.

"We just want to see justice done and be left alone to grieve."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0845-60-60-365 or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800-555-111.