Partygoer died from stab wound to the back

John Lee Barrett

A man attacked and stabbed while attending a private party at a nightclub in Rochdale died from a stab wound to the back.

John Lee Barrett, 31, from Harpurhey, was at a party at Sinclair’s Bar on Drake Street when he was stabbed.

A post mortem examination concluded he died from a stab wound to the back. It is believed he had been hit over the head with a glass or bottle immediately prior to the stabbing.

At about 2.40am on Christmas Day, police were called to the bar following reports of a large disturbance. Officers attended and discovered the club's security had already ejected a number of people who were inside. Police then closed the premises.

Mr Barrett  was taken to hospital but died yesterday ( Tuesday 27 December 2011).

Chief Superintendent John O'Hare, said: "This will be a lengthy and complicated investigation due to the number of people in the club at the time of the incident.

"We have spoken to a number of witnesses, but we are still extremely keen to hear from anyone who was there that night. If you were at Sinclair's Bar in the early hours of Christmas Day and we haven't yet spoken to you then please get in touch - your information could be vital.

"We remain especially keen to speak to those who had been ejected by door staff before police arrived.

"Regardless of what you saw and whether or not you think it is relevant, it is extremely important you contact us so we can build as full a picture as possible to establish exactly what happened."

Anyone who has information should call police the Major Incident Team on 0161 856 3691, police on 101, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.