'Incomprehensible void' left by death of pub boss

The void left by the death of a popular businessman will be "incomprehensible" for years to come, according to those who knew him.

Matthew O' Gara died in hospital on Tuesday afternoon after reportedly being punched at a bar in Lichfield, Staffordshire, on Sunday.

He left behind "a loving partner, family and an overwhelming legacy of friendship and overarching goodness," a friend said.

Billy Allison, a member of the flag-raising group Raise the Colours, was charged with his murder.

O' Gara's friend described him as an "amazing person" and said he was "the gel between pockets of friends," adding that he had a tireless work ethic and was a fan of football, live music and travel.

"The recent tragic event has been a huge shock," they added, and said the impact was still very raw.

O' Gara was a director at The Plough pub, near Lichfield, having moved to the area about five years ago.

His friend told the BBC he transformed The Plough into a "vibrant, family-orientated, welcoming, fun place".

He built an environment "where you could simply walk in alone and sit in with anyone," they added.

"Those who were once strangers or pub acquaintances, are now close friends and much larger groups and 'rounds'."

They said he was quiet and composed, and "never flustered" adding that he was doted on by staff young and old.

In response to a social media post by The Plough, a number of firms across the hospitality industry have been sending their condolences.

The pub was shut earlier this week to give family and staff "the time, privacy, and respect they need", according to the post on Facebook.

Lichfield Rugby Club also posted a tribute to the businessman, describing him as "a friend of the club and a very generous and valued sponsor" who often attended matches and events.

District council leader Doug Pullen said local people would come together to support everyone affected, adding that Lichfield was a "safe and welcoming city" which had a "strong sense of community".

"In the days ahead, I know that we will show kindness and respect, especially towards those grieving such a heartbreaking loss," he said.

Police said they were called to reports of two men being punched at the Ricco and Loren bar on Market Street, Lichfield, at 23:25 BST on Sunday.

Officers said one of the men, O'Gara, died in hospital on Tuesday afternoon, while the second, who also went to hospital, was discharged.

Allison, 36, from Solihull, is accused of murdering O' Gara and causing grievous bodily harm in relation to the latter.

He was remanded in custody and is next due to appear at Stafford Crown Court on 1 September.

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