TRIBUTES have been paid to a football fan who was attacked by a group of hooligans in Southend.

Simon Dobbin, who was attacked at a Southend United match in 2015 and left permanently brain damaged and paralysed died this morning, Cambridge United has confirmed. 

Mr Dobbin, a beloved Cambridge United fan, passed away at is home, five years after the attack.

Cambridge United have paid tribute to Simon this afternoon.

Echo: Simon, left, with wife Nicole Simon, left, with wife Nicole

The club said: "It is with a heavy heart that Cambridge United can confirm we have received the devastating news that Simon Dobbin sadly passed away at home this morning. Sweet dreams Simon. Forever a U."

Mr Dobbin was attacked in East Street, Southend, on March 21, 2015, after watching his beloved Cambridge United take on the Blues at Roots Hall.

Echo:

A total of 13 Southend United fans were eventually convicted of playing a part in the incident, which left him unable to walk or talk.

His loving wife Nicole became his full-time carer.

She had launched a campaign for violent criminals to be forced to pay a contribution towards the care of their victims for the rest of their lives. 

More to follow