THE family of a man who died following an assault in Hartlepool have paid tribute to a loving father.

Mark Dixon suffered severe head injuries following an altercation just after 4am on Sunday, October 5 on Victoria Road in Hartlepool.

The 32-year-old died a week later in Middlesbrough's James Cook University Hospital on Saturday, October 11.

Today (Wednesday, October 15) his family said: “Mark was a young, healthy family man, he has been taken away from us in such horrendous circumstances. He is leaving a five-year-old daughter and wife.

“Mark was a gentleman who didn’t socialise often. What happened that night was an unprovoked, violent attack and it has left family and friends absolutely devastated.

“Friends and family have begun to fundraise for Mark and we would like to thank everybody for all the support shown. We would like to request privacy at this time.”

A post-mortem examination that took place on Monday revealed that Mark died of head injuries.

Friends of Mr Dixon have raised more than £6,500 in his memory. To contribute to Mark’s fund log onto www.gofundme.com/fiqp5w

A 28-year-old man remains on bail in connection with the incident.

Enquiries into the incident are ongoing and a dedicated telephone line has been set up. Anyone with information is asked to contact 01642 302191 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.