A ‘loving brother and son’ has died in hospital after an alleged assault in the early hours of Saturday (September 2) morning.

Thomas Tierney was being treated in hospital for a serious head injury following an incident in Stockton shortly after 12.10am on Saturday.

The 54-year-old sadly died in hospital despite the best efforts of medics. His family has been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

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His siblings have today (September 6) released a photograph of him, saying he was “loved by everyone”.The Northern Echo: Thomas TierneyThomas Tierney (Image: CLEVELAND POLICE)

The family said in a statement: “Thomas was a gentle loving brother and son, loved by everyone. He was kind and wouldn’t hurt anything or anyone. He will be very much missed.”

They have asked for privacy while they come to terms with their loss.

A 27-year-old man who was previously arrested on suspicion of assault has been released on bail after questioning.

The incident happened near the Ship Inn Yard Alley near Stockton High Street.

The Northern Echo: Emergency services were called to the High Street in Stockton, near the Ship Inn Yard alley, at around 12.10am following reports of an assault.Emergency services were called to the High Street in Stockton, near the Ship Inn Yard alley, at around 12.10am following reports of an assault. (Image: GOOGLE MAPS)

Cleveland Police has re-appealed for information about the incident or anyone with CCTV footage to come forward.

A force spokesperson said: “Our thoughts remain with the family of Thomas Tierney at this very difficult time.

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“We would again appeal for anyone who was in the Ship Inn Yard alley or Stockton High Street areas in the moments before 00.10am on Saturday (2nd September) to come forward.

“And if anyone has any mobile phone, dashcam or CCTV footage they can also contact Cleveland Police on the 101 number, quoting ref 175132.

“If you don’t want to speak to police, you could pass information anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by phoning 0800 555 111.”