A grandfather killed by his XL bully dog was “the kindest, most loving person you would ever meet”, his family has said.

David Daintree, 53, was found dead at his home in Ashley Court in Accrington on Tuesday by police who were called to reports of a dog attacking someone shortly before 9.30pm.

Armed officers shot dead the dog, later confirmed to be an XL bully, a breed which is restricted in England and Wales.

Lancashire Police said they had “no alternative” as the animal posed a “significant threat of serious harm” to more people.

As part of its investigation into the incident, the force will look into how the dog came to be in Mr Daintree’s possession and who owned it before him.

In a tribute released through the police on Friday, Mr Daintree’s daughter, Joanne, said he was a “brilliant grandad, dad, husband”, who “will be missed by so many people”.

She said: “Dad was a man who had so much love to give he didn’t know what to do with it. Everyone that has ever met him have all said what a lovely man he was.”

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Mr Daintree went through some “dark hard times”, she said, including losing “the love of his life in 2021 but he was starting to get his big loving heart back.

“He was the kindest, most loving person you would ever meet. He would help anyone including people he didn’t know, and he has done that on a number of occasions.

“He was a brilliant grandad, dad, husband and he will be missed by so many people.

She said: “At least now you’re back with your Shazza and you can get back to drinking your Bacardi and cokes together. Rest in peace Daddy Dave.”

His seven-year-old granddaughter, known as Squeaky Lou, added: “To my Gar, I am going to miss you lots.

“I love you lots but I am glad you’re back with nanny now.

“Please give her some big cuddles and sloppy kisses from me.

“Love yours and nanny’s Squeaky-Lou.”

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From 1 February, it became a criminal offence to own the XL bully breed in England and Wales without an exemption certificate.

It’s also illegal to sell one, abandon one, or let one stray.

Read more:
Dogs seized after man dies
Woman killed by her two XL bully dogs
Boy, 5, treated in hospital for head injuries after dog attack
Scotland brings in XL bully ban

Giving away an XL bully is banned, as is breeding or breeding from the animals or having one in public without a lead and muzzle.

Anyone who owns one of the dogs must have had the animal neutered, have it microchipped and keep it muzzled and on a lead in public.

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It followed a series of attacks on people.

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