Gang victim was 'not a fighter'

Christopher Folkes died from head injuries

The mother of a man kicked to death by a 10-strong gang has described her son as a "mild-mannered boy".

Christine Baxter, 51, spoke after her son Christopher Folkes, 37, was attacked on Saturday night in Queen's Park in Blackburn, Lancashire.

The father-of one died in hospital from serious head injuries a day later. His family was at his bedside.

Three men, aged aged 16, 20 and 22, have been arrested on suspicion of murder and remain in custody.

Ms Baxter said: "Chris was not a fighter, he was a mild mannered boy and not violent."

Mr Folkes, from Shadsworth, Blackburn, has an 18-year-old daughter, two sisters, one brother and a step-father.

The [witnesses] felt sickened by what they saw, someone who was not able to defend themselves being attacked in that way Det Supt Neil Hunter

He was found with serious injuries by a jogger after being involved in a row with a group of men.

Police said the gang had been drinking in the park before they chased and assaulted him.

Det Supt Neil Hunter said: "It seems they were enjoying the weather and drinking alcohol and it boiled over and Christopher was attacked."

He said joggers and dog walkers were alerted to the attack after hearing shouts and seeing Mr Folkes fleeing.

"They heard shouting and they saw Christopher on the floor being kicked repeatedly about the head," he said.

"They felt sickened by what they saw, someone who was not able to defend themselves being attacked in that way."

The offenders ran away from the scene through the gates of Queens Park, towards Audley.

Anyone with information is asked to come forward and contact Lancashire Police.