Tributes to axe attack victim in BBC series The Detectives

The family of a man who was the victim of an axe attack which featured in a BBC series hopes his bravery will raise awareness of "merciless drug gangs".

Cameron Brooksbank's death was announced on the final episode of The Detectives: Taking Down an OCG.

Mr Brooksbank was 17 years old when he was attacked in the street in October 2017 in Rochdale, Greater Manchester.

Paying tribute, his family said his death had "created such a huge and painful void in our lives".

The BBC Two series follows a policing operation by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) to take down what the force described as Rochdale's most significant OCG.

It features Mr Brooksbank's journey as he prepares to face his suspected attacker in court for a retrial.

The attack unfolded after a "minor road rage incident" involving one of the gang members in the town.

A number of tree surgeons including Mr Brooksbank were working close by and attempted to defend the woman before he was hit twice with the axe and his hand almost severed.

Mr Brooksbank agreed to give evidence in court despite being offered £10,000 by a suspected gang member not to attend.

Following the final episode on Wednesday night, GMP confirmed Mr Brooksbank had died on 18 June at the age of 24.

His death was not being treated as suspicious, the force added.

His family said: "This has been the most terrible time for our family, but we are just one, of many, that are being supported by GMP, who are constantly being destroyed by these cruel, merciless drug gangs.

"Everyone can see first-hand how these members proactively target children into drug misuse and debt to become modern-day slaves.

"Also, the bravery of the officers who put their lives on the line must never be taken for granted; they have been so caring and comforting."

They thanked GMP for their support along with members of the public "for all the many kind words and praise for our special son and grandson".

"We are extremely proud of Cameron's bravery and that his personal story will hopefully help raise some much-needed awareness around this topic," they said.

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