Man dies after pub fight

A self-employed builder has died from a head injury following a fight in a Staffordshire pub.

A man was appearing before magistrates today in connection with the death of 34-year-old Mark Sandham.

Mr Sandham, of Wellington Close, Stafford, was found unconscious shortly after midnight on Friday.

Paramedics took him to Stafford Hospital where his mother and friends were at his side. He died on Saturday night.

The incident happened at The Oxleathers, in Cape Avenue on Stafford's Western Downs estate. No-one from the pub was willing to comment on the incident.

A post mortem revealed that Mr Sandham died as a result of injuries suffered during an assault.

Aaron Matthew Smirthwaite, aged 34, of Conifer Grove, Stafford appeared at Cannock Magistrates Court today accused of unlawfully killing Mr Sandham.

The case was sent to Stafford Crown Court for a preliminary hearing which will take place on Monday. Smirthwaite was remanded in custody until that date.

Chief Insp Simon Tweats said: "Specially trained family liaison officers are offering support to Mr Sandham's family following his tragic death.

"Officers have also been interviewing witnesses and offering reassurance to the local community."