Family pay tribute to County Durham man who died on Christmas Eve

Man who died in Christmas Eve pub incident is named as Steven Shevels

Author: Sophie GreenPublished 30th Dec 2025

Tributes have been paid to a 61-year-old man who died following an incident on Christmas Eve.

Officers were called to The Queen’s Head, in Willington, just after 4.45pm following reports a man was unconscious inside the pub.

Despite the best efforts of the emergency services, the man was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

Today (30th December) he has been named as Steven Shevels from Crook.

In a statement, his family said: “We are heartbroken to announce the tragic death of Steven, who was taken from us far too soon.

“He will be deeply missed by all of his family and friends.”

A 36-year-old man was arrested on Christmas Day and taken into custody, where he was charged with manslaughter.

Martin Greensmith was remanded into police custody before his appearance at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court on Saturday (December 27).

He was released on bail to appear at Durham Crown Court on the 27th January.

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