THE family of a man who died following an incident in Tyldesley have paid tribute to him.

Police were called to a house on Rutland Road, Shakerley shortly after 3am on Monday, following reports that a man had been stabbed.

They discovered 23-year-old Stuart Smith with serious injuries to his torso.

He was taken to hospital but sadly died a short time later. A post-mortem revealed he died from a stab wound to the chest.

In a tribute, Stuart’s family said: “Stuart was a happy loving son, grandson, uncle, cousin, brother and friend. He will be missed by everyone.

“He always had a smile on his face and it is tragic he has been taken away from us at such a young age.

“Stuart was thoughtful, kind and always there for his nieces and nephews. He was a loveable character and he will be sadly missed by all his family and friends.”

Anyone with information should phone police on 0161 856 1722 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. *Daniel Walker, aged 23,of Devon Road, Shakerley, Tyldesley has been charged with Mr Smith's murder and possessing an offensive weapon. He appeared this morning at Wigan and Leigh Magistrates Court and was remanded in custody and will appear before Liverpool Crown Court on Friday.