A MAN has been charged with the manslaughter of a pensioner who died following an attack outside a North-East pub.

Michael Kelly, 20, is due to appear before Newton Aycliffe magistrates on Tuesday morning following the death of 73-year-old Cliff Palmer on Sunday.

Mr Palmer suffered serious head injuries when he was attacked outside Blakes pub in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, at 12.30am on Saturday The grandfather of Bury Road, Newton Aycliffe, who still worked as a self employed roofer, had been out drinking with friends on Friday night.

Following the incident he was taken by ambulance to Darlington Memorial Hospital where he died on Sunday afternoon.

Mr Kelly, a labourer, of Mackenzie Place, Newton Aycliffe, was arrested on suspicion of murder then charged with manslaughter this afternoon. Police say about 50 people were in Blakes when Mr Palmer left and have urged witnesses to come forward.

A spokesman for the pub confirmed that they called the ambulance.

"At this time we are assisting the police with their enquiries and our thoughts are with the victim and the victim's family," he said.

Mr Palmer leaves a wife, Elsie, two married daughters, Beverley and Marie, five grandchildren and one step-great-grandchild.

Floral tributes have appeared at the crime scene, several yards away from Blakes near a taxi rank, including at least two from local taxi firms.

Known as Cliffy by many, he was a former national serviceman and worked for British Rail before setting up his own roofing company 30 years ago.

He has been described as a remarkably fit and agile family orientated man who doted on his grandchildren.

Police say his family are devastated by the events and do not wish to speak to the media.

Neighbours have described Mr Palmer as a patient man who would play with his grandchildren for hours and worked very hard for his family Anyone with any information about Mr Palmer's death is asked to call Bishop Auckland police on 0345-60-60-365 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.