A MAN died after being punched and kicked in the head more than three times, it was revealed today.

Unemployed joiner Shane Eckersley was beaten to death in the late-night street attack after a night out.

Mr Eckersley, aged 40 -- who has a 12-year-old son -- was savagely beaten as he left a Salford restaurant with a friend.

The Horwich-born man died in Salford's Hope Hospital from severe head injuries less than 48 hours later.

And today, as a murder hunt was underway, detectives said Mr Eckersley was an innocent victim.

His family were said to be devastated by the news.

Mr Eckersley, who is separated from his wife, had moved from Horwich to a low-rise block of flats in Gingham Park, Radcliffe, around a year ago.

He was attacked after leaving the Saigon Restaurant in Lower Broughton Road, Pendleton, Salford, after enjoying a meal with a friend on Friday night.

He was attacked by thugs in a group of up to 30 people.

Detectives have confirmed that there was an argument in the restaurant shortly before closing time which spilled out onto the street outside.

They said Mr Eckersley and his friend -- a 23-year-old man from Salford -- may have been involved in an argument with another man inside the restaurant at around 11.30pm.

They were both attacked after leaving. Detectives said Mr Eckersley was repeatedly kicked and punched by a large number of men.

His friend suffered less serious injuries but was still detained in Salford's Hope Hospital today. Police are keen to talk to a white man in his 20s. He has dark hair and a stocky build. He was wearing dark jeans and a patterned shirt.

The results of a post-mortem examination into Mr Eckersley's death yesterday had not been revealed today. Det Supt Kevin Duffy, leading the investigation, said: "Shane had been out for the night with his friend and I believe there were a number of people in the area at the time, who saw the attack.

"There were people in the restaurant and many more on the streets surrounding it.

"I would urge these people and anyone else who saw what happened to get in touch with police as soon as possible. His family, is devastated by his death."

A neighbour in Gingham Park said: "He was a very friendly man who was always very smartly dressed and looked after his appearance.

"He had been living here for a year. It is tragic."

Anyone witnesses with information are asked to contact the murder incident room on 0161 856 5153 or Crimestoppers anonymously on free phone 0800 555 111.