New appeal over Shane Watson murder

The family of Sedgley murder victim Shane Watson today paid tribute to him as a "caring, compassionate family man" – as a fresh appeal was made for witnesses.

The 23-year-old was found with serious head injuries in an alleyway in Springfield Grove on Saturday morning. He died in hospital soon afterwards.

Mr Watson had been enjoying a night out with family and friends at Sedgley's Ex Servicemen's Club before spending the rest of his evening in Monty's Wine Bar, in High Street, in the hours before his death.

In a statement, his family said today: "Shane was popular with all who met him and was a caring, compassionate family man and he had been a pillar of strength recently following a family bereavement. He was his dad's best mate and the apple of his mum's eye. He always used to say that life is short and to have fun and create memories that make you smile."

They added: "We are grateful for witnesses that have so far come forward and would like to encourage others who may be able to help to do the same."

Detectives today appealed for revellers to come forward. Det Insp Harry Harrison said: "We understand Monty's was busy on the night Shane died and, although we've spoken to several witnesses, I'm sure more people may have seen what happened or may unwittingly be sitting on important information.

"I'd ask for anyone who was at Monty's on the night or in the vicinity around Springfield Grove between 1am and 4am where Shane was found seriously injured to contact us as soon as possible." Anyone with information is asked to call CID on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Shylon Wishart, 19, of North Springfield, and James Cartwright, 18, of Sandyfields Road, both Sedgley, have been charged with the murder of Mr Watson and appeared before Wolverhampton Crown Court today.

The teenagers are set to stand trial on April 8 next year.

Retail worker Wishart and student Cartwright were remanded in custody and will reappear in court on October 22.