The devastated family of a man who died from stab wounds after an alleged attack at a business park have paid tribute to their ‘gentle giant’.
Father-of-three Andrew Darn, who was 35, died on Wednesday following an incident at the Tyne Tunnel Trading Estate in North Shields.
Now the keen carp fisherman’s family have shared some heartfelt words in his memory.
Get more from The Northern Echo and stay informed with subscription now available on special offer. Click here to find out more.
Stephanie, who has been Andrew’s partner since he was 17 years old, said: “He’s my best friend. I’ve lost my best friend, my other half.
“My heart hurts. I’ve got this pain in my chest since I was told, and I don’t know what to do to make it go away.
“I don’t want to get out of bed, but I had to for the kids.
“We’ve lost everything. Andrew was our whole world, as we were his.
“He is gone too soon, and we loved him. It’s not fair on the kids.
Andrew’s mam and dad shared how his brother, Nathan, would call Andrew his ‘brother bear’, and how he worked away with his dad, Michael, for over 12 years.
They said he was well-liked and respected by everyone he met.
Andrew Darn (Image: Contributor)Most read:
-
Famous fan with NUFC tattoo on tummy loses home - and signed Shearer shirt - in fire
-
Keir Starmer backs Northern Echo campaign to save Hitachi from closure
-
Award-winning Durham spa introduce brand new cold-bathing experience
Andrew’s mam, Deborah, said: “We just can’t believe he’s been taken from us.
“His babies don’t know where he is.”
Andrew leaves behind his partner of 18 years, along with their three young children, his parents, a brother, a sister, and his grandmother.
They continue to be supported by specialist officers at this time.
Alder Willis, 68, of Allanville, Camperdown, North Tyneside, appeared at Newcastle Magistrates' Court charged with murder and possession of a pointed article.
Willis was remanded into custody and is due to appear at Newcastle Crown Court next month.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article