The family of Daniel McMullen have spoken of the “nightmare” since his death and their plans to keep his memory alive.

Speaking exclusively to the Times & Star, Daniel’s older brother Steven told of his torment at losing his sibling and the “overwhelming” flood of support from the people of Workington.

Mr McMullen, 29, of Beech Court, died on January 7 after he was found injured at his home at around 7.30am.

His funeral is due to take place at St Michael’s Church, in Workington, at 11am today followed by interment in Salterbeck Cemetery.

He leaves twin brother Andrew and Steven, who said the days since the tragedy had felt like a blur.

“It’s impossibly hard to get through,” he said. “It didn’t seem real. It was like one big nightmare all day on the Saturday and Sunday.

“Andrew has taken it really hard, he’s lost his shadow. They both struggled after our dad died last year.

“For the last two years Daniel was a carer for dad while he battled leukaemia.”

Steven, 36, of Winifred Street, said his brother had been filled with excitement to meet his unborn niece and had bought her a cuddly toy as a Christmas present.

The toy will give Steven’s daughter something personal to keep her uncle’s memory alive.

And the family are also thinking of ways to pay tribute to him with a permanent memorial.

He added: “Me and Kim love the fact his niece will have something to cherish off him. He said this was going to be the year our family had only good news. We’re going to make sure she hears plenty of funny stories about him.”

More than 100 people gathered at a candlelit vigil and Steven said it could be something they looked to hold again, while a memorial bench was another idea mentioned.

“We walked into the legion on the Sunday and it was overwhelming,” he added.

“It really helps. I can’t thank folk enough for everything they’ve done.”

Mr McMullen was passionate about snooker, pool and darts, playing for teams at the town’s Royal British Legion.

After leaving Stainburn School he got into mechanics, studied at Lakes College and worked at a garage.

His most recent job had been at New Balance, in Flimby, over Christmas and he was hoping to get back into work soon.

Steven added: “He’d do anything for anyone. He was very popular and outgoing, always up for a night out and he quite liked having fun and socialising.

“He knew everybody, you couldn’t walk through town without somebody stopping him. He just loved life.”

A man has been charged with Mr McMullen’s murder.

Calvin James Patrickson, 22, of Newlands Gardens, appeared before a judge at Carlisle Crown Court last Wednesday and a provisional trial date was set for June 26. He was remanded in custody until his next hearing.

He was not asked to enter a plea.

A second man was also arrested in connection with Mr McMullen’s death and was released on bail until February 17.

The 24-year-old, of Workington, was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.