Fatally stabbed sportsman had 'zest for life'

Tom Ellis was a caring man with boundless energy, his family say

A keen sportsman, fatally stabbed outside a shopping centre, was a gentle giant with an unmatched zest for life, his family said.

Tom Ellis, 25, suffered a stab wound outside the Ropewalk shopping centre in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, on 8 June.

Paying tribute, his family spoke of his love for bright clothes, extensive shoe collection and iconic hairstyle.

A 16-year-old boy accused of Mr Ellis's murder has been remanded in custody to appear at Warwick Crown Court on 12 July.

Tom Ellis was a keen and competitive sportsman who had recently discovered a passion for squash, his family say

The 25-year-old, pictured with dad Chris, had begun to plan a future with partner, Lex, before he died

"His unique style, infectious personality, and love for crazy music made him an unforgettable presence in the lives of everyone who knew him," his family said.

"Words cannot express the depth of our grief and the void that Tom's passing has left in our lives.

"We take comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched and the memories we will forever cherish."

The keen and competitive sportsman "was an invaluable member of every team, always giving his all and inspiring those around him," they added.

"The love he shared with his partner, Lex, was evident to everyone who saw them together. They had just begun to plan their future—a future that has been tragically cut short."

The family expressed "heartfelt gratitude" to those who had offered support since Mr Ellis's death.

His mum added her first-born son was a role model to his sister and two brothers and always knew how to cheer people up.

Two teenage boys, 14 and 15, arrested on suspicion of murder have been released on police bail. In addition, a 13-year-old boy arrested on suspicion of murder on 11 June has also been released on bail.