Bodmin stabbing: Tributes to ‘gentle giant’ rugby player Mike Allen knifed to death outside nightclub as seven injured
TRIBUTES have poured in for a "gentle giant" rugby player after he was knifed to death outside a nightclub in Bodmin, Cornwall.
Michael Allen, 32, was brutally killed in an attack outside Eclipse nightclub in the town around 3.15am on Sunday.
Emergency services rushed to the scene where seven other men and women were injured in the bloodbath.
They were taken to hospital but none of their injuries are life-threatening, say cops.
A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder, attempted murder and causing grievous bodily harm with intent.
He remains in police custody with officers not hunting for any other suspects.
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The Magistrates' has today granted an extension allowing Devon and Cornwall Police more time to quiz him.
The community are now mourning the loss of Michael - who is known to friends as Mike.
His family has today said: “Mike was simply much-loved son, brother, grandson, and uncle who loved his dogs.
“His family would like to respectfully request privacy at this time”.
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Bodmin RFC, who Mike played for, said: "It is with great sadness that we can now announce the passing of our player and friend Mike Allen.
"Mike came to the club earlier this season and quickly became a big part of our squad.
"His humour and kindness has left a mark on us all and we will miss him dearly.
"Our thoughts are with Mike's family at this devastating time.
"There is a memorial set up outside the rugby club where people are welcome to come to pay their respects and lay flowers.
"Fly high brother."
Grief-stricken pal Mike Gower wrote online: "Gentle giant and just a nice sound bloke. Devastating. RIP my friend."
Mike's devastated cousin Alex Rhodes said: "He really was the kindest, most gentle man. He will be very missed xx."
Chris Rich added: "Always such a lovely guy - you didn’t deserve anything like that to happen to you and no one should have to worry about going out and something like this happening. Absolutely vile."
Nikki Smith wrote: "This is just such sad sad news. Thinking of all his family and friends at what must be a heartbreaking time."
Detective Inspector Ilona Rosson yesterday said the tragedy was an "isolated matter".
She said: “Following an incident in Bodmin a man in his 30s has been confirmed deceased and officers are supporting his next of kin.
“At this time we are treating this as an isolated matter and we are not seeking anyone else in connection to this incident.
“This is a live and active police investigation, and I would urge people not to speculate on social media but if you have information which may assist us, please report it.”
East Cornwall Local Policing Superintendent, Rob Youngman said: “This investigation is in its early stages and the public can expect to see a heightened policing presence around Bodmin today whilst enquiries are ongoing.
“Understandably this incident will have an impact on the local community, and our thoughts are with the families of the victims.
“Cordons will stay in place today whilst officers gather information and evidence from the scene.
“Anyone who has not yet been spoken to by officers and has any information which may assist our investigation, please get in touch.
"This could include any relevant dash-cam, mobile/video phone and CCTV footage from the area of Victoria Square and along Castle Canyke Road.”
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The local force confirmed extra patrols would be carried out in the area while investigations continues.
Anyone with information can call police on 101 or report it online .
