‘Gentle’ grandad died while out celebrating wife’s birthday
TRIBUTES TO TRAGIC BUILDER ASSAULTED IN STREET
A GRIEVING family has paid a tribute to a ‘gentle’ grandfather who died after he was assaulted on a night out to celebrate his wife’s birthday.
Kevin Wood, 60, a builder from Middleton, died following a disturbance involving about ten people on Dantzic Street near the Printworks in Manchester city centre on Saturday night.
Mr Wood, known as ‘Woody’ to friends, was a passer-by who was not involved in the initial disturbance at 8pm but was assaulted and died at the scene, according to Greater Manchester Police.
Callum Crosbie, 22, of Colebridge Close, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, has been charged with murder and possession of crack cocaine.
Yesterday, Mr Wood’s family paid a moving tribute to him, describing him as a ‘gentle man.’
They said in a statement: “We are struggling to put into words just how special Kevin – known as ‘Woody’ to his friends – was and how much he meant to all who knew him.
“He was extremely hard-working, proud and loyal to his family. He was a soft-natured and gentle man who always thought of others.
“Kevin was a loving husband, best friend and soul mate to his wife, dad to his only daughter, stepdad, grandad, brother and uncle who was just out celebrating his wife’s birthday. He will be deeply missed.
“We, as a family, are devastated at his loss.
“We would respectfully ask for privacy at this time to allow us to grieve and come to terms with this devastating incident.”
Neighbours described Mr Wood as a quiet man and keen United fan.
Even though one man has been charged, GMP say their investigation ‘remains ongoing’ and officers are appealing for anyone with information or footage of the attack to come forward.
Information can now be uploaded to GMP’s Major Incident Public Portal at mipp.police. uk/operation/06GMP21S39-PO1
Details can also be reported to police on 0161 856 6377, 101 or via GMP’s LiveChat function at www. gmp.police.uk quoting log 2792 of 20/11/2021.
Alternatively, witnesses can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111