The family of murdered father Anthony Evans today spoke of their anguish as an appeal was launched for help to find his killer.

speaking for the first time, his parents Tony and Maureen said: "We are devastated by our loss. Anthony was a much-loved member of the family.

"He was a man of principles and high standards who was always willing to help others.

"He will be sorely missed and will never be forgotten."

Mr Evans, a 29-year-old father of two young children from previous relationships, died after suffering a brain haemorrhage following an attack in a Brighton nightclub.

His parents, who are being comforted by family and friends at their home in Hove, appealed to everyone who was in the club to contact the police.

Mr Evans, who has three older brothers, was a plasterer by trade.

Detective Constable Clinton Novelle, family liaison officer, said: "This is a close-knit family which has been devastated by this tragedy.

"The family has joined with police in appealing for anyone in the club to come forward, whether they saw anything or not."

Doctors and relatives of Mr Evans, of Bolsover Road, Hove, made the decision to switch off his life-support machine in hospital on Monday night.

He suffered a brain haemorrhage after being punched in the Escape Club in Marine Parade in the early hours of Sunday.

Mr Evans collapsed and hit his head on the floor, but appeared to recover.

He later collapsed again in Hove and was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton where he remained in intensive care and on life support.

Detective Inspector Bill Warner, of Brighton CID, said: "This was tragic and our thoughts are with Mr Evans' family."

Police believe the attacker had no idea the single punch would ultimately prove fatal.

Few people saw the attack and even those who were near Mr Evans in the club thought at first he had simply collapsed from the effects of drink.

Twenty detectives, led by Detective Chief Inspector John Levett, are working on Operation Griffin to find the killer.

So far, there have been no arrests.

Anyone with information should contact the Sussex Police incident room on 01273 665893.