Supporter killed before Wales match named

A fan beaten to death outside Wembley Stadium before last night's soccer international was named by police today.

Wales supporter Mike Dye, 44, of Cardiff, south Wales, was attacked outside the stadium before kick-off in the Euro 2012 qualifier which saw England beat Wales 1-0.

Six men - all believed to be Wales supporters - are being questioned by police about the incident.

Mr Dye was found with head injuries on a concourse area outside the turnstiles at the venue at around 7.20pm last night.

Paramedics revealed he had also suffered a heart attack before being rushed to a north London hospital.

Colleagues at Cardiff Council, where Mr Dye worked in the highways department, are said to be devastated today.

Council chief executive Jon House said: "Staff at the authority are devastated at the loss of their colleague and friend who gave almost 20 years of good service to the Council in a very specialised service.

"Our thoughts are with his family at this tragic time and we will be offering support to his family and work colleagues."

Thousands of people have left messages on a Facebook tribute page entitled RIP Mike Dye.

Several refer to his wife, Nathalie, and children in brief messages of tribute.

Lisa Kavanagh wrote: "to mikey a really nice person who has been taken away to (sic) soon god bless to you rip mikey and to all ur family my deepest sympathy to you all god bless lisa k and family xxxxxx.

Carol Binding wrote: "R.I.P. Mike...I did't know you...but like so many others, I am sickened to hear about this ...my thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends at this sad time.Sleep Tight and God bless."

Debbie Smith, said: "r.i.p mikey your mate norm is gutted, thoughts are with you wife and children xxx."

Michelle Hill, added: "RIP Mike! thoughts are with Nathalie and family at this sad time.

Other comments, among more than 3,500 on the tribute page, reflect the sadness felt by many.

Abbie Gail Buckl, writes: "Thoughts and prayers going to Mikey's wife, children and friends ..... flying high with the Bluebirds in heaven ......God bless you Mikey .. r.i.p. .... from Abs & Packi Kenfig Hill x."

Lee Richards added: "r.i.p mike from a fellow cardiff city fan my heart goes out to your family."

Mel Rambo Chemist Taylor wrote: "A diamond who will be sadly missed by many, RIP Mike you were one of the good guys xx."

Mr Dye, known to many as Mikey, was a long-time Cardiff City fan who wrote about the Bluebirds on the CardiffCityForum internet site.

Carl Curtis, the forum moderator, added an official message following news of the death last night.

He said: "I would urge everyone to leave the whispers, rumours and stories going around the internet tonight where they are out of respect for Mikey's family members and leave your condolences here.

"I have been asked to put this message out from the club and I have also been asked to say that the club will give Mikey a send off on Saturday at the Doncaster game. The club officials have passed on their condolences and will do so again this Saturday."

Police continue to appeal for anyone who may have witnessed the attack on Mr Dye to come forward.

A police spokesman added: "Officers from the Homicide & Serious Crime Command are investigating, and inquiries continue to establish the full circumstances of the incident.

"An incident room has opened at Hendon under A/DCI Sheila Stewart (HSCC).

"Anyone with information that may assist should call the incident room on 020-8358 0100; if you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

PA