Senseless death of Leeds dad-of-three left 'huge hole' in his family's life

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The death of father-of-three Paul Davinson at the hands of his partner’s neighbours has “left a huge hole in the lives of his family”.

The 49-year-old collapsed after being set upon by Stephen and Cheryl Long, who were jailed at Leeds Crown Court this afternoon after they admitted manslaughter.

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The couple had got into a street fight with Mr Davinson in Rothwell late on March 9 following a long-running dispute.

Mr Davinson suffered a fatal cardiac arrest, triggered by a headlock he was put in by Stephen Long, coupled with an undiagnosed serious heart condition.

During the hearing, the court heard statements from Mr Davinson’s family, with his mother describing him as a “doting-on dad” and a “role model” to his three children.

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Judge Tom Bayliss KC said: “According to those who knew him, he was a hard-working man who rarely took a day off work.

“He did so to provide for his children, his partner and to pay the bills.”

His partner, Michelle Downey described him as being “irreplaceable” and wrote in a statement: “He was kind and genuine, considerate honest and reliable. If anyone needed anything doing, he would be there, even for people he did not know.

“He loved being around people and always helped others.”

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Speaking after the sentencing, the senior investigating officer, Detective Inspector Elly Buchanan said: “Paul was a much-loved son, father and partner, and his death has left a huge hole in the lives of his family.

Paul Davinson (inset) died after the attacks form Stephen and Cherly Long caused his death in the street. (pics by WYP / National World)Paul Davinson (inset) died after the attacks form Stephen and Cherly Long caused his death in the street. (pics by WYP / National World)
Paul Davinson (inset) died after the attacks form Stephen and Cherly Long caused his death in the street. (pics by WYP / National World) | WYP / National World

“The violent actions of Stephen and Cheryl Long that ended his life were completely unnecessary and have had a devastating impact on his family and on all who knew him in the local community, where he was a very popular character.

“His death in these circumstances is absolutely tragic and shows all too clearly the terrible consequences that can occur when people use violence.”

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A statement from Mr Davinson’s family read: “Paul Davinson’s mum Christine Davinson, his partner Michelle Downey and his three children would like to thank West Yorkshire Police for their hard work in gathering the evidence which led to Stephen and Cheryl Long pleading guilty to manslaughter.

“Their actions that night took Paul away from his family and friends.

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“We thank the police liaison officer for keeping us informed of all developments of the case in a timely manner and being very supportive throughout. I would also like to thank the Homicide Victim Support Service for all the help and compassion they showed during this difficult time.

“We would like to thank the prosecuting KC for taking the time to explain the procedure and ensuring we get justice for Paul, and the judge for showing a lot of consideration for all the people who attended.

“We thank Paul’s friends and colleagues who gave us so much support throughout the period leading up to the conviction of both Stephen and Cheryl Long.

“Finally, we would like to thank all the witnesses that provided their details to the police and were willing to attend court.”