Tributes have been paid to “a deeply caring man” with a “kind heart” who died in hospital after suffering serious injuries.

Fifty-seven-year-old Tony Armstrong was rushed to hospital following an incident in St Paul’s Road, near Hartlepool town centre, on July 24.

Cleveland Police confirmed more than a week later that he had died.

A 37-year-old man is currently on conditional bail after he was charged with killing him.

Tony Armstrong, inset, died following an incident in Hartlepool's St Paul's Road in July.

placeholder image — Tony Armstrong, inset, died following an incident in Hartlepool's St Paul's Road in July.

Mr Armstrong’s family have now said in a statement issued through the police: “Tony lived a life that was not without challenges. Despite those struggles, he was a deeply caring man who loved his family and had a kind heart.

“Family meant a great deal to Tony. He was a father to Rachel and Amy, and a much-loved brother, cousin and uncle.

“In the final weeks of his life, dad was helping to care for his cousin Darren, who was facing significant health difficulties of his own. He also cared deeply for Darren’s daughters, Kirsty and Chloe, and for his niece and nephew, Jessie and James.

“He is now reunited with his beloved son, Daniel, his mam, Pat, his dad, Ray, his sister, Sarah, and his much-loved dog, Sasha.

Tony Armstrong died after receiving injuries during an incident in St Paul's Road, Hartlepool, in July.

“Tony’s life was complicated, but it was also full of love, memories and people who cared about him. He will be remembered for his caring nature, his love for his family, and the memories he leaves behind.

“He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Rest peacefully, dad. Until we meet again.”

Mark James, 37, of St Paul’s Road, Hartlepool, is charged with manslaughter and is due to appear at Teesside Crown Court in September.