THE family of a man who died after being kicked in the head in the gardens of a church have paid tribute to him.

Steven McMyler was viciously attacked in the gardens of Wigan Parish Church shortly before 7.50pm on Thursday, August 6.

Despite the best efforts of emergency services, Steven sadly passed away at the scene at the age of 34 and a murder investigation was launched.

The Bolton News:

Wigan Parish Church. Picture: Google Maps

Paying tribute to him, Steven’s family said: “Steven was an extremely likeable lad, and everyone who came across him loved him as much as we all did.

"He was a popular lad, and he lit the room up as soon as he walked in.

“Everybody thought the world of him, as he had a heart of gold.

"We can’t believe what has happened, and we are struggling to come to terms with this terrible tragedy.

"As a family, we would appreciate some privacy at this devastating time.”

If you have any mobile or CCTV footage of the incident or of other suspicious activity in the area that night you can upload it by clicking here.

Footage and images relating to the incident are available for the public to view on the Major Incident Team’s online portal by clicking here.

If you have any information contact police on 0161 856 4815 quoting incident 2,974 of August 6.

Alternatively, call the anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.