A 37-year-old man has acknowledged responsibility for the death of a well-liked father outside a popular pub chain establishment in Ebbw Vale.

Marcus Carpenter sustained serious injuries following a single punch during an altercation at The Picture House in the town centre between 11.30pm on Friday February 20 and 12.15am the following morning. He passed away in hospital four days after the incident and detectives subsequently opened a murder inquiry.

Kyle O’Callaghan, who is 30 years old, left the area immediately and a £10,000 Crimestoppers reward was subsequently announced for any information resulting in his capture. He was eventually apprehended and faced a manslaughter charge in connection with Mr Carpenter’s death.

At Newport Crown Court, O’Callaghan entered a guilty plea to manslaughter. His defence counsel Peter Donnison stated to the court that his client acknowledged his actions and had chosen to admit the offence.

Mr Justice Daniel Williams disclosed he had reviewed CCTV recordings of the assault and determined that O’Callaghan’s punch had made a more than minimal contribution to Mr Carpenter’s death, a position the defence did not contest. The judge informed O’Callaghan he would receive a substantial custodial term when proceedings resume on May 15, during which victim impact statements from Mr Carpenter’s family are anticipated to be presented.

In a statement issued following his passing, family members remembered Marcus as a much-loved son, partner and father with the warmest nature who was always willing to assist others. Those who knew him described him as unique and someone who could brighten any space, while a crowdfunding initiative has been established to cover funeral expenses.