TRIBUTES have been paid by family and friends to a man found dead in a Bolton flat with a fatal stab wound.

They say Patrick Floyd had a gift for getting the best out of people.

Mr Floyd, aged 43, worked as a mentor in Radcliffe, where he helped to support vulnerable young adults with disabilities or special needs.

His work led him to meet former Prime Minister Tony Blair a few years ago in recognition for his efforts.

But shortly after 7.40pm, on Tuesday, April 14, he was found dead inside the flat in Chapman Street, Bolton.

His friend, Maria Wallace, said: “Patrick was a loving son, brother, uncle and a truly special friend.

“He was known and respected in the community for the dedication and compassion that we all witnessed in his work.

“He devoted himself to those he cared for, as a mentor, facilitator and trusted friend.

“He had that rare gift of encouraging the best in people and will be greatly missed.”

Patrick’s brother, Nick Smith, added: “We were very different in many ways and had different thoughts and ideas, but one thing we always had in common was the compassion, love and high regard we had for each other; rarely expressed, but always known."

Two people, a 26-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman, were arrested on suspicion of murder and have been bailed until July 15, pending further inquiries.

Anyone with any information about Mr Floyd’s death should call police on 0161 856 5867 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.