A WOMAN has paid tribute to her partner after he died on Christmas Eve, two days after he was attacked in a pub car park.

Peter Bradfield, of Long Grove, Baughurst, was assaulted in the car park at The Cricketers pub, in Heath End Road, on December 22 at around 8.35pm.

The 53-year-old sustained a serious head injury and was taken to Basingstoke hospital in a critical condition.

However, he later died on December 24.

Today, Mr Bradfield’s partner Melanie Griffiths has paid tribute to him.

She said: “We have lost a much-loved son, father, exceptional step-dad and partner.

"Needlessly taken too soon. Our hearts are broken.”

A 35-year-old man, from Micheldever, was initially arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm with intent in connection with the attack on the father.

However, following the death of Mr Bradfield, this man was further arrested on suspicion of murder.

He has been bailed with conditions until March 24.

A 16-year-old boy, from Reading, was arrested on suspicion of affray in connection with the incident. He has also been released from police custody on bail with conditions until January 23.

Anyone with information about the murder investigation is asked to call police on 101, quoting the crime reference number 44180475030, or to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.