Tributes have been paid to a Malvern man and “hero” dad following a suspected murder in Coventry.

Police launched a murder investigation yesterday morning after a man was found with serious injuries at a property in Hopedale Close, Coventry.

The 57-year-old victim - now named locally as Paul Hawkesford-Barnes - died at the scene.

Mr Hawkesford-Barnes’ son, Kyle Barnes, said life would never be the same. 

He said: “You always went out of your way to make people laugh and smile. What I wouldn’t give for a phone call to hear ‘how’s going mate, how’s the kids?’.

“I’m sorry the last two years were a bit up and down but I’m also glad we never shouted or argued. Sorry if I was a pain, it was only because I wanted you around more, not less.

“I thought I had years ahead with you. You died my hero.”

Kyle said his dad’s death leaves “four children without a dad, a grieving wife with no husband and two grandchildren with no grandad”, adding that Mr Hawkesford-Barnes was a loving friend to so many.

Dozens of people have responded to a Facebook post paying their own tributes to Mr Hawkesford-Barnes.

'He was a legend'

One said he was a “superb chap and will be greatly missed by so many people”. Another said: “I can’t even imagine your pain. He loved his family so, so much. We all loved him so, so much.”

Another response said: “So sad to see this. Thoughts are with you and the family. He was a legend. He’ll be hugely missed.”

West Midlands Police said a woman in her 90s was also injured in the incident and has been taken to hospital to be treated. Her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. 

A man has been arrested in Lincolnshire on suspicion of murder and police said he would be transported to the West Midlands for questioning.

“We believe this is a domestic-related incident and we are not currently looking for anyone else in connection with this tragic incident,” a spokesperson said.

“We are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information. Please contact us via Live Chat on our website or by calling 101. Please quote log number 538-150322.”