A FAMILY has paid tribute to a 'joyful' father, brother and son who was fatally stabbed in a Blackburn street.

Lee Kenyon, 35, of Hall Street, Blackburn, was this afternoon jailed for life for murdering 51-year-old James 'Jim' Murray in Largs Street, Blackburn, on October 2.

Kenyon, who pleaded guilty to murder, wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and possessing an offensive weapon in a public place, was told he will have to serve a minimum of 22 years before even being considered for parole.

Following the hearing at Preston Crown Court Mr Murray's family released a series of statements.

Mr Murray's daughter, Tara Murray said: "Knowing that my dad’s life was taken by another human being will haunt me forever, he should be here enjoying life with us like he always did. My family will never be the same again, I will miss him more than words could ever say."

Mr Murray's son, Damien Murray, said: "Me and my family have been devastated by the loss of my dad, he brought so much joy to everyone around him with the silly things he did. I love him and miss him every day."

Murderer jailed for life after stabbing Blackburn father to death

Mr Murray's mother, Ellen Lodge, said: "One of the hardest things about Jim's murder is learning to refer to him in the past tense because in my heart he is still alive. I will never be able to accept that he died on the pavement like a wounded animal. This haunts me night and day. I pray it was quick and that he wasn't aware of what was happening. I will never in my heart be able to say goodbye to Jim. I sometimes feel him so close I can almost see him. I don't ever want him to be just a memory.”

Mr Murray's sister, Janette, said: "Jim was my only brother he was a lovely loving funny little man and will be missed dearly."

Mr Murray's sister Hazel said: "It breaks my heart every day not at least getting to say goodbye as we always did kiss each other and says 'see you later'!! A brother that never let me down & always there for me day or night"

Mr Murray's sister Anita and her husband Steve Furnell said: "We are all so devastated by my brother’s life being taken from him in such a cowardly brutal way. He was so lovely and would do anything to help anyone. We will forever love and miss him."

Judge Brown said: “Knife crime is a terrible blight on society. It has caused countless tragic deaths, particularly of young people. You have demonstrated over the years not only a willingness to carry a knife but to use a knife when necessary. In my judgement you represent an appalling example to children.

"It is clear from the victim personal statements and the evidence I have heard today that the tragic death of James Murray has had a profound affect on his family. It is clear he was much loved by them and his loss has been hard to bear. “