Tributes pour in as victim of fatal assault in Staffordshire named - man due in court charged with murder
A 36-year-old man is due to appear in court charged with murder
Tributes have poured in across Lichfield’s hospitality community following the death of a respected local businessman after an incident in the city centre, with pub owners, councillors and friends describing a “devastating loss” that has left the area in shock.
Messages of grief and solidarity have been shared widely since news emerged of the fatal assault on Sunday night, with venues and community leaders highlighting the impact on staff, friends and the wider trade.
Staffordshire Police confirmed that officers were called to the Ricco and Loren bar on Market Street at around 11.25pm on Sunday, May 24 following reports that two men had been punched.
One of the victims, who has been named on social media as ‘Matt,’ died in hospital on Tuesday.
Billy Allison, 36, from Solihull, has since been charged with murder and grievous bodily harm in connection with the incident.
Councillor Andrew Clissett said he was “shocked” by the death of a “respected local business owner,” adding that the news had deeply affected those who knew him.
He said: “Our community stands together with everyone affected.
“Sending my deepest thoughts and prayers to the family of the victim. Having visited The Plough many times with my own family and knowing people that work there, I can’t begin to imagine the devastating impact this heartbreaking loss is having on the current staff, those who have worked there over the years, and the wider Lichfield community.”
The bar at the centre of the incident, Ricco and Loren, said it was “devastated” by recent events and confirmed it is working closely with police.
It said in a Facebook post: “As a small local family business, we are devastated by the events of the last few days. We have been working closely with the police in this matter, and we will continue to do so throughout this incredibly sad and difficult time.
“We are sending all our love, thoughts, and best wishes to everyone affected, we will be closed for a few days to give our staff some time, thank you.”
The Plough also announced a temporary closure as those involved come to terms with the tragedy.
It said: “Due to some very sad news involving one of our business partners, we will be closed today and tomorrow.
“At this difficult time, we would like to give our staff and the family involved the time, privacy, and respect they need.
“Thank you for your understanding and support.”
Lichfield Pubwatch said the city’s hospitality venues were united in grief and support, while also stressing the importance of maintaining safe and welcoming spaces.
It said: “As a group of licensees, owners, and businesses across Lichfield, we stand together not only in supporting one another through challenging times, but also in our commitment to maintaining safe and welcoming venues.
“The Plough, please know that your pub community is behind you, and you have our support. We would also like to remind everyone to be kind at this time and support those dealing with the heartbreaking loss and respect their privacy.”
Further tributes from across the city’s pub trade have reflected the scale of the loss, with colleagues describing a tight-knit community united in grief.
The Duke of York in Lichfield said the tragedy had left a deep mark on those who worked alongside the victim.
It said: “The loss of two Lichfield landlords… one a very close friend and the other a guy we knew in passing but only ever heard wonderful things about.
“A huge loss to our amazing city and the hospitality community that makes Lichfield so special.
“Once again, the people of Lichfield have stepped up and shown exactly what kind of place this is… loving, supportive, compassionate and united when it matters most.
“So hug your people a little tighter, check in on those around you, live life to the fullest every single day and above all… be kind.”
Police investigations remain ongoing, with officers continuing to appeal for information as the city comes together to support those affected.