Tribute to murder victim as injured man discharged

Gary Belfield died of his injuries, which were consistent with having been caused by a bladed article

The family of a man who was stabbed to death have paid tribute to his "caring, friendly" nature.

Gary Belfield, 40, died following an alleged attack at a house on Elliott Drive in Felling, Gateshead, on Saturday.

A second man in his 20s, who was found seriously injured, has since been discharged from hospital.

Police had already made seven arrests, and a 17-year-old boy has now been arrested on suspicion of murder.

He remains in police custody, along with a 15-year-old girl arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder.

A 17-year-old boy was charged with attempted murder and was remanded in custody following an appearance at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.

Two men and three women, aged between 21 and 51, have been released on police bail pending further enquiries.

Shocked and devastated

The family of Mr Belfield, who was from the Manchester area, paid tribute to him.

"He was a caring, friendly person who was popular in his hometown. He never looked for or got into trouble," he said.

“As a family we are shocked and devastated at what has happened. We are trying to process the events of the last four days and grieve our loss.”

Det Ch Insp Louise Jenkins, of Northumbria Police, said the family had all shown "incredible strength" in the face of "such tragedy".

“A full investigation into the circumstances surrounding Gary’s death remains ongoing, and we are committed to delivering answers and bringing anyone involved to justice," she said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101.