Man killed by XL bully was 'most loving' - family

David Daintree was the owner of the dog but had only had it a short time, police say

A man who was killed by an XL bully dog in his own home was the "kindest, most loving person you would ever meet", his family has said.

David Daintree, 53, was attacked by his pet in Ashley Court, in Accrington, and was found dead at about 21:30 BST on Tuesday.

Neighbours said Mr Daintree and another man had been trying to separate two dogs that had been fighting shortly before the attack occurred.

In a tribute, his daughter Joanne said: "Dad was a man who had so much love to give he didn’t know what to do with it."

She said everyone who had met her dad had "all said what a lovely man he was".

"He would help anyone including people he didn’t know," she said.

"He was a brilliant grandad, dad, husband and he will be missed by so many people."

'Help anyone'

Lancashire Police said Mr Daintree was the owner of the XL bully, which was shot by officers, but had only had the dog "a relatively short time".

The force said the "previous ownership of the dog" would form part of its investigation.

Under the Dangerous Dogs Act, it is illegal to "rehome, sell or transfer ownership" of XL Bully dogs.

The family tribute said Mr Daintree had been through some "dark, hard times" but was "working hard to get his life back on track" and, after "he lost the love of his life in 2021", he was "starting to get his big loving heart back".

"At least now you're back with your Shazza and you can get back to drinking your Bacardi and cokes together. Rest in peace Daddy Dave,” his daughter said.

Mr Daintree's granddaughter added: “To my Gar, I am going to miss you lots."