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1st May 2023
03:45pm BST
Tributes have been paid to a rugby player described as an "absolute legend" who was killed during a stabbing frenzy outside a nightclub.
Michael Allen, 36, has been named locally as the victim who died during a huge outbreak of violence in the early hours of Sunday morning in Bodmin, Cornwall.
At least seven others suffered stab wounds in the incident, and were taken to hospital with injuries ranging from 'serious' to 'minor,' although none were described as life threatening.
A suspect remains in police custody after being arrested for murder.
But while the police probe continues, family and friends have paid tribute to Mr Allen, who lived in Bodmin and was a popular player at the local rugby club.
One family member wrote: "What a horrible world we live in, Michael, love you always cuz.
"He really was the kindest, most gentle man. He will be very missed."
Another friend said: "You were a great funny guy Michael Allen, an absolute legend, heart of gold.
"Rest in peace big man absolutely gutted."
In a post on Facebook, the rugby club paid tribute to Mike.
A statement read: "It is with great sadness that we can now announce the passing of our player and friend Mike Allen (Chabel).
"Mike came to the club earlier this season and quickly became a big part of our squad. His humour and kindness has left a mark on us all and we will miss him dearly.
"Our thoughts are with Mike’s family at this devastating time.
"There is a memorial set up outside the rugby club where people are welcome to come to pay their respects and lay flowers.
"Fly high brother."
Pictures taken on Monday (May 1) show a police cordon that remains around the scene outside Eclipse nightclub.
Officers were initially called to Victoria Square on Castle Canyke Road in Bodmin, at 3.15am on Sunday (April 30) following reports of a "serious altercation."
Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that some of those caught up in the incident had been in the Eclipse nightclub earlier in the evening - but said the attack itself happened outside.
Mr Allen was later confirmed dead at the scene. His next of kin has been informed and is being supported by specialised officers.
A 24-year-old man from Bodmin has been arrested on suspicion of murder, attempted murder and causing grievous bodily harm with intent. He remains in police custody.
Supt Rob Youngman said it was not currently known what the relationship was between the arrested suspect and the victim and they were still trying to establish a motive.
He said: "At this moment in time we are working to continue to understand the motivation behind this incident. The relationship, if any, between those involved is not clear at this stage.
"We believe some members of the group who were injured had been in Eclipse nightclub. They were then outside in Castle Canyke Road when the incident happened."
One local described kick-out time at the club as "rowdy and unsafe".
They said: "Kick-out time at the Eclipse is always awful, it's so rowdy and unsafe. Don't think I've never not seen a fight go on.
"Thoughts with all people affected by this awful news."
Another person said: "No such thing as a good old punch up anymore mate, absolutely gutted - he was a diamond."
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