Ethan Cockram from Wallsend admits killing Sunderland granddad Simon Beston

Tragic Simon Beston was found with serious head injuries after an altercation in St Andrew's Street, in the Chinatown area of Newcastle, on July 26 last year.

Fifty-five-year-old Mr Beston, who was reportedly punched to the head and fell to the ground, was rushed to hospital but died from his injuries a few weeks later on August 16.

At Newcastle Crown Court on Thursday, Ethan Cockram, 21, of Durham Street, Wallsend, pleaded guilty to manslaughter.

During the same hearing, Shayne Cook, 19, of Winifred Gardens, Wallsend, admitted one charge of affray in relation to the incident.

Lola Charlton, 20, of Fairhaven Avenue, Walker, also pleaded guilty to one charge of affray.

Cockram was remanded in custody and the other two defendants were granted bail until the sentence hearing on Thursday, October 29.

In a statement released by Mr Beston's relatives shortly after his death, they said: “Simon was a loving son, a devoted father and a proud granddad.

“He filled our lives with kindness, wisdom, and laughter.

“His legacy lives on in the love he gave so freely and in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

“His ‘live life now and worry not’ attitude was evident in all he did and loved.

“Rest in peace, knowing you are eternally loved.”

His partner added: “Simon had such a beautiful energy – warm, kind and full of life.

“He cared so deeply for others and surrounded me with a love I'll never forget. Even in the simplest moments, his kindness and caring heart lit up my world.

“He was taken far too soon, but the way he loved and the energy he brought into my life will stay with me forever.

“Rest in peace, Simon. I'll hold you in my heart always.”

Mr Beston was laid to rest at Sunderland Crematorium in September last year.

In honour of his fun and colourful spirit, the family requested that mourners wear a “splash of lilac or pink, his favourite colours”.