A MAN is to be charged with murder after the death of a grandfather who was the victim of an alleged street attack.

Stephen Dewhurst, 49, never regained consciousness after an incident in Audley, Blackburn, while he was out celebrating his daughter's pregnancy on August 24.

Police have confirmed that Ansar Haq, of Portland Street, Accrington, who was previously charged with grievous bodily harm in relation to the case, will face a murder charge. He will be formally charged tomorrow

Mr Dewhurst never saw twins Katy and Stephanie, who was named after him by his daughter Natalie, after they were born five weeks ago. He died in Blackburn Infirmary at 7am yesterday.

Mr Dewhurst was walking home to Ripon Street, Blackburn, when he and his friend, Anthony Mullarky, were allegedly set upon.

His injuries left him in intensive care at Royal Preston Hospital before being transferred to Blackburn Royal Infirmary. Mr Mullarky suffered minor head injuries.

Detective Chief Inspector Mick Turner, of Blackburn CID, said: "Ansar Haq has already been charged with grievous bodily harm with intent in the case relating to Stephen Dewhurst and was due to appear at Preston Crown Court in the New Year. However since Mr Dewhurst has died we will be charging him with murder."

Mr Dewhurst's eldest daughter, Angela, 26, said that she was upset at the news.

"I am angry that he has died. My father should still be walking the streets today," said Angela, of Bentham Road, Blackburn. Angela, Natalie, 17, of Billinge Street, Audley, and Stephen's parents have all spent time at his bedside since the incident.

Angela added: "He was in pain all that time and it was very disheartening to see him in that state. I had a feeling he was going to die on Monday night.

"I was expecting the phone call all through the night and yesterday morning.

"The hospital rang me and I went to get Natalie but by the time we arrived at the hospital, he had died.

"It has been a long, long four months that we endured but at least he is not struggling any more.

"I don't think we will find out exactly what happened that night until a court case.

"I have heard many different things I don't know what to believe."

A post-mortem examination will be held at Blackburn Royal Infirmary today but the body may not be released by the coroner for a further two weeks.

An inquest is due to open early next year.