Parklife Festival: Robert Hart Dies after Assault

A festival goer has died in hospital after he was attacked at the Parklife Weekender in Manchester while protecting his girlfriend.

Robert Hart was punched to the ground until he was unconscious near to the main stage in Heaton Park after trying to help his girlfriend who was being repeatedly whacked with an inflatable toy.

Police confirmed the 26-year-old from Macclesfield died on Wednesday.

They are now hunting for his assailant, described as mixed race, aged in late 20s and 6ft 1in. He has a muscular build and short, dark hair. He was also wearing shorts and a blue, bomber-style jacket with the letter 'A' in white on the front.

Detective Inspector Richard Eales said: "Our immediate thoughts go out to Robert's family and loved ones. We currently have specially trained officers with them to help through this terrible time.

"We believe a confrontation took place following an inflatable doll hitting Robert's girlfriend.

"We are aware other assaults took place in the park that evening but I am specifically appealing for witnesses who recall seeing the inflatable doll and the attack on Robert immediately thereafter.

"I am keen for those witnesses to come forward and other persons nearby who may have mobile phone footage of the attack or captured an image of the person responsible.

"Finally if you are the man responsible or were with him that evening, please come forward."

Two off-duty paramedics who were in the audience gave the victim CPR before moving him to a 20 bed medical centre on site.

He had reportedly regained consciousness and spoke to the police.

People have been left shocked at the news of his death.

Coronation Street actor Antony Cotton tweeted: "Rob Hart has died in hospital after being attacked at Parklife. Horrific news. So depressing..."

Others took to Twitter to express their remorse.