Tributes have been paid to a "wonderful son and brother" who died following a serious assault last month. 

Craig Gill sustained serious injuries following the incident at Blake’s Bar, in Newton Aycliffe, on the evening of Saturday, July 8. 

The 61-year-old, of Newton Aycliffe, was taken to James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough, in a critical condition.

Durham Police announced that he, "tragically died as a result of his injuries", at the hospital, five days later.

Read more: Man denies murder after Newton Aycliffe Blakes incident

His family today (Wednesday, August 9) paid tribute to Mr Gill, saying: “The whole family is devastated at the loss of our wonderful son and brother. 

“Craig was a quiet, gentle man who was much loved by his family. He was extremely popular in the local community, and his death has left an enormous hole in our lives.” 

Richard Smith Slater, of Bury Road, Newton Aycliffe, appeared at Durham Crown Court this afternoon (August 9) charged with murder.

Read next:

Newton Aycliffe man dies after Blakes bar incident last week

Newton Aycliffe Blakes: Richard Slater charged with wounding

Man in critical condition after 'incident' at Blakes in Aycliffe

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The 33-year-old denied the offence and was remanded in custody.

His trial is scheduled to start at Teesside Crown Court, on Tuesday, January 2.

It has a time estimate of five days or more.