THE family of a 31-year-old man who died more than a week after being assaulted have described him as their “best friend” who was “loved by everyone”.

Iain Lee died on Wednesday in James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough.

The family of the 31-year-old have paid tribute to a man they said was “everyone’s friend”.

In a statement, Mr Lee’s family said: “Iain was a much-loved son, brother and uncle.

“He wasn’t just our son – he was our best friend: his family meant the world to him.

“Iain was loved by everyone and had love for everyone else – he was everyone’s friend."

The family also revealed that, following his death, Mr Lee’s organs had been donated for transplant to help others.

The Northern Echo:

SCENE: Iain Lee was assaulted outside The Roundhouse bar in Newton Aycliffe Picture: SARAH CALDECOTT

They added: “We agreed to organ donation so Iain can continue to make a difference to others even after his death and it is of some comfort to know that five people could have the chance of a better life."

Mr Lee had been in hospital since the early hours of Saturday, September 8, when he suffered serious head injuries in an assault near The Roundhouse bar.