Fight death 'peacemaker' is named

James Latimer, of Bedford, was described as quiet and gentle

A man who died after being seriously injured trying to break up a fight has been named by police.

James Latimer, 22, of Dearne Walk, Bedford, was found with head injuries in the early hours of Sunday outside a takeaway in Midland Road, Bedford.

He was taken to Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge where he died on Monday.

Det Insp Alan Postawa said Mr Latimer was a gentle man who was believed to have been trying to break up a fight between a friend and another man.

Det Insp Postawa said Mr Latimer, who was described as quiet and intelligent, had his sights set on a career in sports journalism.

'Tragic waste'

He worked part-time in a shop and lived with his father, Billy, mother, Helen, his brother Andrew, 18, and sister, Sarah, 15.

Det Insp Postawa said: "This is a tragic waste of a young life and our thoughts are with James' family, friends and work colleagues at this time.

"Police are doing all they can to find out exactly what happened that night and we would urge anyone who was there, or has heard information since that may help, to get in touch."

Two men, aged 18 and 21, arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm, have now been released on police bail pending further enquiries.

A large group of people were involved in a disturbance in the street shortly before Mr Latimer was found, police said.

A post mortem examination is due to take place later.