Express & Star

Pub tragedy victim a 'fantastic' father

The girlfriend of a father who died after being punched in a pub has led tributes to him, as a suspect was appearing in court today charged with manslaughter.

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Father-of-one Jonathon Woodhall, who was better known as Paddy, died following disorder at The Deer's Leap, in Queslett Road, Streetly.

The 27-year-old, of Tamworth, was today described by family as a 'fantastic dad who doted on his son'. Adam Lynn, aged 24, of Kingstanding Road, Kingstanding, was appearing in Birmingham Magistrates Court this morning charged with manslaughter.

Two other men who were arrested following Friday's fight have been released on police bail pending further inquiries.

A 22-year-old man who was also arrested will face no further action. Mr Woodhall died in hospital on Saturday night.

He had been taken to hospital after a disturbance in the garden of the pub at around 7.50pm on Friday. Mr Woodhall's devastated girlfriend Stacey Davies took to social networking site Facebook to pay tribute to him.

The hairdresser, from Dordon, in Warwickshire, wrote: ""Actually can't believe it. Words jus can't describe ow I'm feeling! The most lovely, loyal man has been taken away from me, his family and his lil boy!

"I will always love u Paddy Woodhall , don't no wot I'm gana do without u I really don't! Always n foreva xxxxxxxxx."

Family member Claire Boyle added: "My beautiful cousin. Words can't describe how I'm feeling. Gonna miss you loads. Rest in paradise Paddy."

Another family member, Kayley Woodhall, wrote: "Paddy Woodhall I love u more than words, hardest day of my life, words can't describe how I feel now u was the best, I'll hold u forever in my heart and love u always!! Another angel took far too soon xxxxxxxxxxxxx"

Others posted messages of condolence to Mr Woodhall, from Tamworth.

People living near to the pub, near Streetly, spoke of their shock after hearing of his death.

Community worker Dave Kendrick, aged 58, who lives in nearby Cooksey Lane, said: "I've never known of any trouble at the pub. I've lived here for three years. I'm shocked that a man has died. It's very sad.

"This area has had its moments in the past but there's generally no problems along here."

Another man living in Cooksey Lane, who did not want to be named, added: "I left the house on Friday night and saw police cars and a police van, like a riot van.

"I didn't know what was going on but knew it must have been quite serious."

Anyone who was at The Deer's Leap on Friday and has any information should contact Det Insp Plant on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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