Man charged over serious assault in L'Derry city centre

By David Hunter

A 19-year-old man has been charged with grievous bodily harm following a serious assault in the Newmarket Street area of Derry. 

A man in his 30's was left in a critical condition after the incident in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The suspect's due in court next month, whilst an 18 year old woman has been released pending a report to prosecutors.

The victim of the attack has been named locally as Danny Payne. 

It's understood the Foyle Search and Rescue volunteer had attempted to break up a fight outside a local bar when he was injured.

A 'Gofundme' page online has so far raised more than £2,500 to help his family. 

Funraisers wrote: "As most of you already know Danny was the victim of a vicious assault in early hours of Sunday 22nd October in Londonderry city centre.

"Anybody that knows Danny knows he is an absolute gentleman with a heart of gold, he has been heavily involved in charity work within our city for a number of years, giving time out of his own life to help others in need.

"I’ve set this page up to try and generate some funds to help the family of Danny with travel expenses to and from Belfast, loss of earnings and generally just to try and ease the burden of money at this difficult time."

"Please donate, I know Danny and I know he’d be the first to help others when in need. "