A MAN who died following an incident at Loveshack nightclub in Durham at the weekend has been named as 54-year-old Stewart Anderson from Hetton-le-Hole.

Mr Anderson, a freelance tiler by trade, leaves behind two brothers, two grown up daughters and a two-year-old granddaughter.

On Monday, Mr Anderson’s daughters Kay and Kelly paid tribute to him.

They said: “We are devastated to have lost our dad in such sudden and shocking circumstances.

“Dad was a very hard-working man who, when not at work, was utterly devoted to his beloved granddaughter Neve.

"He will be hugely missed not only by his family but also his circle of friends.”

Speaking through Durham Police, Mr Anderson’s family expressed thanks for the support of friends during this difficult time and asked for time to grieve in peace.

Police initially arrested seven men on suspicion of manslaughter after being called to Loveshack, in the Walkergate area of the city shortly after 1am on Sunday, after reports of a disturbance inside the premises involving a number of people.

Doorstaff had detained two men and escorted them outside. However, shortly afterwards it became clear Mr Anderson was in distress and having difficulty with regards to his health.

Durham Police said that together with paramedics, officers administered immediate first aid for a period of time until the Mr Anderson was taken by ambulance to the University Hospital of North Durham.

However, the condition of the 54-year-old man deteriorated and he died a few hours later. 

The Northern Echo:

The cordoned off nightclub Picture: Chris Booth

Police have arrested seven men on suspicion of manslaughter and one other man for a public order offence. They have been released on police bail pending further inquiries.

Detective Superintendent Lee Johnson said: “An incident room has been set up and I am appealing for anyone who saw what happened to come forward.

"As part of our enquiries we will also be studying CCTV from the cameras both inside and outside the club itself.

The Northern Echo:

The cordoned off nightclub Picture: Chris Booth

“We are in the early stages of our enquiries and trying to build up a complete picture of what led to the initial disturbance and then the events which happened outside.

"I would urge anyone who can assist to contact police via 101.”

Forensic officers were at the premises on Sunday carrying out daylight searches at the scene as part of the police investigation.

Anyone who witnessed the incident and has information that might assist the investigation is asked to call police on 101.