THE heartbroken family of a Northwich man who died in hospital following an alleged assault have been left “absolutely devastated” by the loss.

John Leonard, 60, died early on Saturday morning, 24 hours after being admitted to Macclesfield General Hospital.

A 20-year-old man was remanded in custody on Monday after appearing at Macclesfield Magistrates Court charged with Mr Leonard’s murder.

Andrew Kirkby, of Barn Road, Congleton, will appear at Chester Crown Court next Tuesday.

Five other males have been released on police bail pending further enquiries.

Mr Leonard’s son, also John, said: “This is very distressing. My father had been living in the Northwich area for two or three years.”

A further statement from Mr Leonard’s family, issued yesterday, read: “Following the tragic death of John our whole family have been left devastated and heartbroken.

“We would like to thank all the staff at Macclesfield General Hospital for the kind care and attention they gave to John and us as a family.

“We draw great strength from the support given to us by Cheshire Constabulary and ask anyone with information that will assist them with the case to come forward.”

The alleged attack occurred at Shaw Street, Macclesfield in the early hours of Friday.

Initially a police spokesman said: “Police were called to an address to reports of people fighting in the street with weapons.”

The investigation has continued but is still in its preliminary stages and a police spokesman said no further details, including Mr Leonard’s address, could be revealed.

Police are appealing to businesses and people living near the scene of the brawl to call them on 0845 458 0000.