A man who died after a town centre fight hit his head on a lamppost and pavement after being punched in the head twice, an inquest has heard.

Wayne Duck, 43, died in hospital on Tuesday, February 15, after suffering serious head injuries five days earlier in Pudding Lane, Maidstone.

An inquest opening at County Hall, in the same town, heard Mr Duck, from Weavering, was "punched in the head twice" before falling and striking his head on a lamppost and pavement.

He was rushed to King's College hospital where a trauma scan revealed he had suffered a fractured skull.

Sadly, his condition began to deteriorate and doctors made the decision he was too unstable to be taken into theatre.

His cause of death was given as head injury and the inquest was suspended pending criminal investigation.

A 23-year-old man and a 37-year-old man, both from Maidstone, were arrested on suspicion of affray following the incident.

After returning from bail on Thursday, the older man was released without charged, while the 23-year-old was bailed again to return on Tuesday, March 15.

Police closed the road between The Herbalist bar and The Old House at Home pub for seven hours while a forensic investigation was carried out.

Tributes poured in for the business owner and passionate footballer.

Following the news Maidstone and Mid Kent Sunday League David Boughton said: "We are devastated to hear that one of the own, Wayne Duck, has tragically died at the age of just 43.

"The whole Maidstone football community is shocked to the core.

"Wayne was a well-known figure in the local football scene, for more than 20 years he played for Park Royal FC and also latterly was club secretary as well, the club running two teams successfully in the Maidstone and Mid Kent Sunday League.

"Wayne was a passionate individual, who loved his family, friends and football, and with his strong character has left a huge void."

Friends have also posted tribute on social media,with one saying: "Why is life just so cruel at times! Gone way too soon! Thanks for the memories."

Friend Phil Griffiths said: "He was such a gentleman who would do everything to help anyone and did loads for charity.

"He pumped so much of his time and effort into the club to keep it running.

"He helped so many players out with difficult times and didn't expect anything back other than having beers after a match.

"Park Royal won't be the same."

He was described as a "top bloke and top football manager" by another.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has privately held video which can assist with enquiries, is asked to call Kent Police on 01622 604100 quoting 46/27141/22.

You can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.