Partner of football fan, 55, who died after a mass brawl says she lost her ... trends now
The grieving partner of a 55-year-old football fan who died after a mass brawl outside a Blackpool pub has said she is 'devastated to have lost [her] best friend, life partner and soul mate in a cruel act.'
Tony Johnson suffered a serious head injury during the fight outside The Manchester pub on Saturday night, following the goalless Championship clash between Blackpool and Burnley.
He was rushed to hospital where he was placed on life support but sadly died in hospital today, Blackpool FC have confirmed.
Since news of Tony's death, fans have gathered to lay flowers outside the club stadium in tribute.
Speaking via a press release from Lancashire Police, Mr Johnson's partner asked for privacy while she and her family grieved.
Tony Johnson pictured with his partner who says she is 'devastated' by his loss
He had been left in a critical condition after the fight and died on Monday morning after spending the weekend on life support
Paramedics performed CPR on the man, who had suffered a head injury, before he was taken to hospital in a critical condition. He has now died, police confirmed
She said: 'I am devastated to have lost my best friend, life partner and soul mate in a cruel act.
'Tony was a very much loved dad, son, brother, uncle and Gramps and obviously a beloved friend to many.
'We all, as a family, are so heartbroken and our lives are never going to be the same.
'Thank you to the NHS, staff in A&E and the Critical Care Unit at BVH who all did as much as they could for our loved one.
'Thank you for everyone for reaching out but please could you respect our privacy at this difficult time. He will be one missed gentleman and the party will live on through us all, just as he would've wanted. Rest in peace my darling, tangerine dreams forever.
A Burnley fan in his 30s was arrested on Saturday on suspicion of wounding and has been bailed until June 1.
Supporters were invited to pay their respects in a book of condolence at their Bloomfield Road stadium this afternoon and to lay flowers behind the north stand.
A club spokesman said: 'Blackpool FC is deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the news that supporter Tony Johnson tragically lost his life earlier this
