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
Friends of a man who tragically died following an assault outside a pub have initiated a fundraising drive to cover his funeral costs. Ben Wright is reported to have been punched and kicked in the head after an incident outside Dessie’s Place, on Liverpool Road in Irlam, just before 3am on 29 March.
He was rushed to hospital but sadly passed away two days later. While a police murder investigation is ongoing, Mr Wright’s friends have set up a GoFundMe page to fund his funeral, which has already amassed over £17,000, reports the Manchester Evening News.
In the appeal, Steven Barlow penned: “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 in their 20s, have been arrested on suspicion of section 18 assault and were later released on bail pending further investigations. In an update issued on Saturday (4 April), a spokesperson for GMP confirmed that a murder investigation has now been initiated.
Tributes have poured in for 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 that surgery was performed for Ben’s organs to be donated to save others’ lives before he passed away.
Dessie’s Place posted a touching 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.”