Birmingham Midland Metro stab murder: Family pay tribute to grandfather Anthony Banting

Anthony Banting, 57, was stabbed multiple times after getting off a tram at Soho Benson Road, at around 4.40pm last Friday (March 31).

The father of four, known as Tony, was murdered as he made his way to meet one of his sons in a nearby pub.

His sons have paid tribute to the grandfather of two and urged anyone with information about his death to come forward.

A statement said: “Dad was a simple man with simple pleasures, and loved nothing more than spending time with his boys.

"He enjoyed crown green bowling, national hunt racing and he regularly travelled to enjoy the sunshine.

“He was loved by many and this incident will never leave us.

"We would appeal to anyone with any information to come forward immediately. We would also like to ask for privacy and understanding at this very difficult time."

Since Mr Banting’s death, officers have been working around the clock to find his killer and any clues about what led to the attack.

Searches of the area continue, along with witness and CCTV enquiries.

Images of a suspect have also been released as detectives work to get justice for Mr Banting’s family.

Det Chf Insp Paul Langley said: “We will not rest until we find the person responsible for Mr Banting’s death and our thoughts remain with his family at this incredibly difficult time.

“We continue to appeal to anyone who knows the identity of the suspect - or saw him in the Benson Road area last Friday - to come forward.

“We remain keen to hear from two Asian women, seen getting off a tram just after Mr Banting, as well as anyone else in the vicinity at the time.

“Just one call could make the difference and help us give his family the answers they need."

Anyone with info is asked to call British Transport Police on 0800 405040 or text 61016 reference 503 of April 1.

Alternatively, details can be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.