THE man who died following an assault outside a city pub on Thursday has been named as Anthony Richardson.

He was found badly injured near The Chesterfield, in Newcastle’s West End, at about 6.20pm.

Emergency services attended the scene, on Elswick Road, and Mr Richardson was taken to hospital with what were described as life-threatening injuries.

The Northumbria force confirmed the 46-year-old local man died from his injuries in hospital, on Friday.

A murder investigation was launched to determine the circumstances leading to Mr Richardson’s death.

The senior investigating officer, Detective Inspector Ed Small, said: “This was a tragic incident which has resulted in Anthony’s death.

“Our thoughts go out to friends and family at this difficult time.

“Anthony’s family is understandably devastated by what happened and they are being supported by a team of specialist officers.

“They have asked that their privacy is respected at this time as they try to come to terms with their loss.

“We are committed to investigating how this desperately sad incident came about and I would like to thank members of the public who have come forward with information over the last 48 hours.

“Inquiries are on-going and two people remain in police custody.

“Anyone who witnessed the incident and who are yet to contact police are asked to do so.”

Three men and a woman were arrested on Thursday night in connection with the incident.

Two men, aged 28 and 44, remain in police custody assisting officers with the investigation.

A 27-year-old man and a woman, aged 30, have been released under investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting log892 07/02/19, of Crimestoppers, anonymously, on (0800) 555111.