Tributes for club murder victim

Ben Lund died in hospital after being attacked at the nightclub

The family of a 19-year-old man who died after an attack at a nightclub in Sussex have said they are devastated.

Ben Lund, who was from Eastbourne, died in hospital after the assault in the early hours of Saturday at the Funktion Rooms in the town.

Sussex Police, who have begun a murder inquiry, have arrested a 24-year-old man, who is being held in custody.

In a statement issued through Sussex Police, Mr Lund's family said his death was a "senseless loss".

The statement said: "Our family are utterly devastated at the senseless loss of our beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew and cousin.

All those who met Ben were brushed with his kindness Family statement

"Our beautiful, gentle Ben, who loved life and always had time and a smile for everyone.

"A fundamental part of our family has been torn from us and we will never stop loving and missing Ben.

"We really appreciate all of the messages of comfort, condolence and support from his friends, lovers and acquaintances - all those who met Ben were brushed with his kindness, he meant the world to all of us."

Dozens of floral tributes have been left outside the nightclub in Pevensey Road with messages of condolence.

Hundreds of people would have been in the venue at the time

The venue, in the centre of Eastbourne, is divided into three rooms, with each one playing different styles of music.

A spokesman for the nightclub said no weapon was used in the attack.

He said: "It was a straightforward altercation but it has tragically resulted in someone losing their life.

"It was just one or two blows."

He said the club had been in touch with Ben's parents and was fully co-operating with the police investigation.

Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward.

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Friends saw Mr Lund being carried away on a stretcher