Gone too soon

MESSAGE of love . . . from mum and dad

1 More Image(s) In Gallery

TRIBUTES have poured in following the death of a man attacked in a street brawl

Andy Molloy died in hospital after being involved in a fight outside an Oldham pub in the early hours of Monday morning.

A murder probe has been launched after the 25 year old, from Hathershaw, was found with serious face and head injuries outside the Old Mess House in Yorkshire Street.

Police were called to the town centre at 2.50am following reports of a brawl.

Mr Molloy was taken to Hope Hospital, Salford, but died hours later.

A 22-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. He is being held for questioning.

Part of Yorkshire Street was taped off until around 3pm yesterday. The crime scene was obscured with a tent.

Heartfelt floral tributes have since been placed at the scene.

One from mum, dad and brothers Carl and Bradley reads: “Andrew, a much loved son. Will be missed forever and always.”

Another said: “It’s gonna be hard without you. Always in my heart and thoughts. From Nicola, Aaron, Callum, Aleisha and Paige.”

Hundreds of tributes have also been posted on the social networking website Facebook.

They describe Andy as a funny guy who made everyone laugh and pictures show him drinking with friends.

One friend wrote: “RIP Andy. Too young and full of life to be gone so young . . . my thoughts are with your family.”

Another added: “This stuff only happens to the best. Heaven must need a soldier because they’ve taken one from us.”

A farewell party is being planned at the Mess House on Saturday and a memorial has been set up on the website Gone Too Soon.

It says: “One top lad Andy, you will never be forgotten lad always in our hearts and memories.”

Police are now appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Detective Chief Inspector Jen Williams said: “This man was the victim of a serious assault.

“There were people outside the pub at that time and they were waiting at the taxi rank.

“They may not have realised quite how serious this attack was, so I’m appealing for them to contact us.

“I’m certain they’ll have vital information for us. At the moment, his family are understandably distraught by what has happened. We are doing all we can to find whoever carried out this attack.

“I am appealing to anyone who witnessed it to come forward.”

Anyone with information should call police on 0161-856 8751 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555 111.