The family of Robert Hart, the man killed after being assaulted at last weekend’s Parklife festival, have paid tribute to a man whose loss they say has “ripped the heart” out of their family.

The 26 year old died in hospital after what police described as a “brutal assault” at the festival on 7th June. The news of Hart’s death was confirmed by police on Thursday. It has been reported that Hart was assaulted after stepping in to protect his girlfriend from being repeatedly struck with an inflatable toy during the wait for Snoop Dogg’s headline set at the festival.

In a statement released today by Hart’s family, it was said that “Robert, Bobby, Uncle Bob, different names to different people, but to friends and family and everyone who knew Robert, he was simply “awesome”. Robert had a love of music and a love of life.”

Greater Manchester Police say the man they believe is responsible for the attack is approximately 25 years old, six fee tall, with short, curly, black hair shaved at the sides and have revealed an E-fit image (above right). He was wearing shorts and a blue, bomber-style jacket with the letter ‘A’ in white on the front.

A statement from Parklife’s organisers states that “Everyone involved in Parklife is devastated by today’s deeply sad announcement. Our sincerest and heartfelt condolences go out to Rob’s family and friends at this difficult time. We will continue to assist Greater Manchester Police with its investigation and urge anyone that may have witnessed the incident to contact the Police through any official channel available to them.”