TRIBUTES have been paid to a man who died in the early hours of Christmas Day.

Police are investigating the death of Nick Medlin, 57, and have arrested three people on suspicion of murder.

Nick's family said: "We are completely devastated and totally heartbroken by the tragic death of Nick on Christmas Eve.

"The family wishes to thank everyone for their kind tributes and ask for privacy to grieve at this very sad time."

Officers were called just after midnight on Christmas Day after reports that a man had been seriously assaulted outside the Rose Inn on Pier Street, Ventnor.

Three men aged 26, 31 and 32 have been arrested on suspicion of murder and are in police custody.

Detective Chief Inspector Dave Brown said: “Investigations are continuing today as we work to establish the exact circumstances of this man’s death.

“We would like to speak to anyone who was in or in the vicinity of the Rose Inn on Christmas Eve night around the time of the incident as they could have information which could assist our investigation.

“So if you have not yet spoken to us please call 101.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting Operation Extension or 44160484578.