Sunday, May 25, 2025
regency radio sussex news
Click here to listen to Regency Radio The Number One Advert Free Radio Station in Sussex

Tributes have been paid to a “devoted and fiercely loyal” family man who died following an assault in Emsworth.

Warm tributes have been paid to a “devoted and fiercely loyal” family man who died following an assault in Emsworth.

Stephen Harrington, 47, was found seriously injured on land along Marlpit Lane around 11.10am on Saturday 23 July.

He was flown by air ambulance to Southampton General Hospital, where he sadly died on Monday 25 July, surrounded by his loved ones. His next of kin are being supported by specialist officers as the investigation progresses.

In a statement released through the force, Stephen’s family said: “Stephen, our son, brother, husband, father, nephew, uncle, and dear friend, was taken from us in a cruel and brutal way on 23 July 2022.

“His death has left us all devastated and heartbroken, with a hole in our lives that can never be filled.

“Stephen was a loving, doting father that prized every moment he spent with his daughter. He was hard-working and a devoted husband to his wife. Stephen’s love for his mother and sisters was unwavering and clear for all to see. He loved and is loved by all his nieces, nephews, and aunties, who will always miss Uncle Steve. 

“He was a fiercely loyal and fun friend. If you ever needed him for anything, all you had to do was ask and he would be there.

“We are all going to have to learn to live with never seeing his smile, hearing his laugh, or just spending time with him again.

“If anyone has any information that can help get justice for Stephen, please find it in your hearts to come forward – if not for our family, do it for the kind and loving man who will never see his daughter grow up or walk her down the aisle. Do it for Stephen.”

Three men – Joseph Butler, 22, of Priors Leaze Lane, Hambrook; Tarin Hopkins, 20, of Common Road, Hambrook; and Thomas Goldring, 20, of no fixed address – have been charged with murder.

They appeared before Crawley Magistrates’ Court on Monday 1 August, where they were remanded in custody to appear at Portsmouth Crown Court on Wednesday 3 August.

Detectives continue to appeal for any witnesses to come forward, particularly anyone who may have seen any unusual or suspicious behaviour in the vicinity of Marlpit Lane from Friday evening (July 22) to Saturday morning (July 23).

Anyone with information is asked to contact police online or by calling 101 quoting Operation Bridport. Alternatively, information can be passed to police anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

More Sussex News

Sussex News Pages

sussex news logo
Click here to listen to Regency Radio

Sussex Coast News

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

We and our partners store and/or access information on a device, such as cookies and process personal data, such as unique identifiers and standard information sent by a device for personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, and audience insights, as well as to develop and improve products. With your permission we and our partners may use precise geolocation data and identification through device scanning. You may click to consent to our and our partners’ processing as described above. Alternatively you may access more detailed information and change your preferences before consenting or to refuse consenting. Please note that some processing of your personal data may not require your consent, but you have a right to object to such processing. Your preferences will apply to this website only. You can change your preferences at any time by returning to this site