Police have highlighted the dangers of drinking to excess after a man was convicted of the manslaughter of 28 year old Allan Taylor.
Jamie Perkes, 23, of Westfield Avenue, Fleetwood was found guilty following a two week trial at Preston Crown Court.
Mr Taylor was assaulted at a taxi office on Preston Street, in Fleetwood, in the early hours of New Year's Day 2010.
During the unprovoked assault he suffered facial injuries and fractures to his ankle.
He died four months later, and a post mortem examination revealed that the cause of death was a blood clot, which was consistent with the injuries he received to his ankle during the assault.
Perkes, and 28-year-old Leanne Potter, of Bramley Avenue, Fleetwood were both arrested in May 2010 on suspicion of wounding with intent.
However, they were then rearrested in December 2010 and charged with his murder.
DS Neil Esseen, from the Force Major Investigation team, said: "This is a tragic case in which a young man has lost his life and I am pleased that the court has accepted Perkes was involved in Allan's death.
"Both were intoxicated on New Year's Eve when they became abusive in a taxi rank office and launched the unprovoked attack on Allan Taylor, who was described by all who knew him as being a gentle and unaggressive man.
The court heard the full details of the violence used, which included Perkes kicking and stamping on Alan, even as he lay defenceless on the floor. This led, amongst other injuries, to the breaking of his left ankle that ultimately led to his untimely death.
"I hope today's verdict provides some comfort to Allan's family, who remain distraught at the loss of their son. The events of that night underline to me the tragic consequences that can arise when people drink alcohol to excess and I would urge people to use alcohol sensibly and to know their limits.
Allan's family has produced a statement, but now wish to be left alone to mourn him. I would ask that their wishes be respected and they be granted some privacy."
Allan's parents Keith and Jean Taylor and his sister Nicola Taylor said: "There are no winners in this case but we feel justice has been done and Allan can now rest in peace. We would like thank our family and friends for their support throughout this incredibly difficult time and also all of the police officers involved. We now request that we are allowed to grieve for our son and brother and ask that our privacy is respected."
Perkes has been remanded in custody to appear at Preston Crown Court on 15 July for sentencing.
Potter was found guilty of common assault and was given a 12 month conditional discharge.
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