A devastated family has paid tribute to a North East dad with “a heart of gold” after he was allegedly murdered during a serious assault in Hartlepool.

The loved ones of Norman Ryan, 55, who was attacked in Hartlepool on August 31, have called him “an entertainer” and “would do anything for anyone” after he died of his injuries in James Cook University Hospital on Friday, September 9.

On Tuesday (September 13), his family said: “Norman was a loving son, dad, brother, uncle, and grandfather.

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“He had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. He was such an entertainer and was always singing Elvis songs.

“He was very religious and was always telling his family to pray to the Lord.

“We will miss him enormously and would like to ask for some time alone to grieve in peace.”

Today, a 23-year-old man also appeared in court charged with Mr Norman’s murder.

Mr Norman had been in the hospital receiving treatment since an alleged incident was reported to police at an address on Troutpool Close around 6:45pm on Wednesday 31st August.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cleveland Police on 101, quoting incident number 155849 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

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