Ben Wright died after being kicked and punched in the head
Ben Wright died following the attack in Salford(Image: Facebook)
Friends of a man who died after he was attacked outside a pub have started a fundraising campaign to pay for his funeral.
Ben Wright was said to have been punched and kicked in the head following an incident outside Dessie’s Place, on Liverpool Road in Irlam, shortly before 3am on March 29. He was taken to hospital but died two days later.
As a police murder investigation continues, friends of Mr Wright have launched a GoFundMe page to pay for his funeral which has already raised more than £17,000.
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In the appeal, Steven Barlow wrote: “We are Ben’s friends, and we are raising funds to help cover the cost of his funeral. Ben truly loved his family and his friends, enjoyed socialising, and was happiest when everyone around him was having a good time. He had a gift for bringing people together and making everyone feel welcome, and that is something we will never forget.
“Anyone who knew Ben will have at least one special memory of him, and we want to come together to make sure he gets an incredible send-off that truly celebrates his life and everything he meant to us. He deserves nothing less, and with your help we know we can make it happen.
“Any funds raised will go towards the cost of the funeral, and anything remaining will be given to his immediate family to support them during this incredibly difficult time. Losing Ben has been devastating for all of us, and we want to make sure his family knows just how many people loved him.
“If you are able to contribute, no matter how small, it would mean a great deal to us and to his family. Every little bit helps us get closer to giving Ben the send-off he deserves. If you can’t donate, please consider sharing this page to help us reach others who may be able to help.”
Three men, all aged in their 20s, have been arrested on suspicion of section 18 assault and were later bailed pending further enquiries. In an update issued on Satuday (April 4), a spokesperson for GMP confirmed a murder investigation has now been launched.
Tributes have been paid to Mr Wright online, with friends describing him as a ‘beautiful human being’ who will ‘never be forgotten’ and a ‘kind-hearted soul’. It is understood surgery was carried out for Ben’s organs to be donated to save the lives of others before he passed away.
Dessie’s Place posted a heartfelt statement following his death which read: “It’s with heavy hearts we share the sad news that our dear friend Ben has passed away. Ben wasn’t just someone who worked with us he was part of our family.
“He loved the pub, the people in it, and all the regulars who walked through those doors. He was one of us… not just a regular, but one of the best and everybody new and loved him.
“His smile, his laugh, and his presence brought so much life into the place, and it simply won’t be the same without him. We will miss him more than words can ever say, and he will never ever be forgotten. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family at this incredibly difficult time and we’re sending love right to you.”
Any information on the incident can be reported to police using this public portal HERE.
