The family of Shane Cullen, a man described as a 'great dad' and 'gentle giant', are appealing to the public for help in locating his mobile phone after he died following a fatal assault at a bar in Ashton-under-Lyne.

Mr Cullen, 47, was assaulted at Blues Cabaret and Karaoke Bar on Bow Street on the evening of July 11. Despite the efforts of emergency services, he was pronounced dead at the scene, leaving his family and the community in shock.

Police have now issued an appeal alongside the family for help in recovering the phone, which they believe Mr Cullen had with him at the time of the incident. The handset is a dark-coloured Android in a black wallet-style case. When closed, only the top section of the screen is visible, and the lock screen is a standard black and blue background with no personal photograph.

Tributes have been laid outside the bar, with flowers placed in memory of Mr Cullen, reflecting the impact his death has had on the local community.

Detective Inspector Matthew Hamer of Greater Manchester Police said: "Since Shane's death, we have been working closely with his family to try and locate his mobile phone. While criminal proceedings relating to Shane's death are ongoing, this appeal is about helping a grieving family recover something that means a great deal to them."

"The phone contains photographs, videos and memories that cannot be replaced, and we are keen to reunite it with Shane's loved ones," DI Hamer added. "We believe Shane had the phone with him at the time of the incident. If anyone has seen it, found it, or perhaps picked it up without realising its significance, we would ask them to come forward and help us return it to the family. Information can be provided anonymously, and we would urge anyone who may be able to help to get in touch."

Ashton-under-Lyne is a neighbouring town to Oldham, and the appeal has resonated with residents across the region who may have been in the area or have connections to the bar. The family's call for help underscores the importance of community support during such a tragic time.

Anyone with information about the phone is asked to contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 856 1995, quoting log 511 of 11/07/26. Alternatively, information can be shared anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.