19 December 2012 Last updated at 12:53 ET

David Ross death in Corby treated as murder

David Ross, known as Les, was a partner in Rubix nightclub in Corby

The family of a man found dead in a Northamptonshire hotel room have paid tribute to "one of life's charmers" who they said would be "remembered fondly".

Detectives are now treating the death of nightclub owner David Ross, who died in a hotel room in Corby, as murder.

Northamptonshire Police said the 39-year-old, also known as Les, had died as a result of an assault.

Mr Ross's body was found in the Village Express Hotel in The Jamb on Monday. He had suffered head injuries.

Det Ch Insp Martin Kinchin, who is leading the investigation, appealed for help from the public in catching the killer.

Mr Ross was a partner in a new nightclub, Rubix, which opened in the town earlier this month.

"He was a well known and popular man and I am appealing for the public's assistance in helping me to establish the events leading up to his death," said Det Ch Insp Kinchin.

Police said they had begun a murder investigation after a post-mortem examination was carried out.

"I would like to speak to anyone who may have seen or had contact with Mr Ross any time between 02:00 and 14:30 GMT on Monday.

"I would also like to speak to anyone who may have any information about David and his life which they feel may assist our investigation."

In a statement, Mr Ross' family said he was a "hard-working, honest professional" and "one of life's charmers... with a wonderful sense of humour".

"David was a larger than life character and will be remembered fondly by all his friends and associates," they said.

"As a family we are struggling to come to terms with this horrific loss especially at this time of year when families should be together.

"David has been cruelly taken from our lives and we will support the police to ensure that justice is done."