THE family of a "cheeky chappy" father who died after an alleged attack in Farnworth have paid tribute to him.

Ian Bendall, aged 43, died four days after reportedly being assaulted near Century Mill.

He had initially discharged himself from hospital the day after the alleged attack, but was readmitted two days later and then died.

Paying tribute to Mr Bendall, from Farnworth, his family said: “Ian was a vibrant and funny character.

“He was a cheeky chappy who carried a permanent smile and was always one to lift people’s spirits. "

Known locally to friends as 'Taffy', Mr Bendall had spent much of his life in Wales and moved to Bolton ten years ago.

"Ian was a partner, a father, a son, a brother and a friend," the family added.

"He was taken too soon and will be missed by those who knew him."

At around 5.55pm on Friday June 9, police were called to a report that a man had been assaulted around midday near to the former cotton spinning mill off George Street.

Mr Bendall was taken to hospital for treatment but discharged himself the next day.

He was readmitted two days later and died on Tuesday June 13.

Four people appeared in court on Monday morning charged with Mr Bendall’s murder.

William Coughlan, Kathryn Colgan and Alex Smith, all of Ramsay Avenue in Farnworth, and Ellis Hampson of Oakfield Drive in Little Hulton, all appeared before Manchester Crown Court, Crown Square.

No pleas were entered by any of the defendants during the short hearing.

Proceedings were adjourned until August 11 when a plea and trial preparation hearing is scheduled to be held.

A trial has been scheduled to start during the week of November 13 and is expected to last around six weeks.

Coughlan, aged 25, Colgan, aged 24, Hampson, aged 19, and Smith, aged 28, were all remanded in custody following the hearing.

A 16-year-old boy has also been arrested on suspicion of murder. He has been bailed until Friday, July 14 2017 pending further enquiries.