Family tells of ongoing grief after death of 'wonderful' Chesterfield soldier

Joseph Robotham, who lived on Sheffield Road, was allegedly murdered in an incident outside Vibe in Holywell Street in February.

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The 23-year-old engineer served in the 1st Battalion of the Mercian Regiment for four years and had completed exercises in Canada, Lithuania and Oman.

Richard Robotham, Joseph’s father, this week told the Derbyshire Times: “Losing Joe not only hurts everyday, it also makes the family more vulnerable as we grow old.

“In his death all our hearts are broken forever.

“Joe was absolutely beautiful both as a baby, child and man.

“His laugh and smile infected everyone around him.

“When he smiled he melted your heart.

“He was a very happy and popular child and, as he grew up, he became a very caring, loving boy.

“His love for his mum, stepmum Jayne, his brother, his grandparents and his cousin was immeasurable.

“Joe and his brother Lee spent numerous summers in Greece and they both travelled widely.

“For many years he played sport – he was extremely fit as well as skillful.

“I would take Joe every Saturday to watch the football team he supported, Sheffield United.

“He joined the army at 19, which was his wish – again he was well liked and loved also.

“Joe had a passion for fashion and cars, and he fulfilled that dream.

“I could go on forever about the special memories and smiles, with a tear in our eyes and pride in our hearts.

“He lives on forever.”

Joseph’s brother Lee added: “Joe was not only my brother, he was also my best friend and the person who I’d trust most in this world.

“We travelled a lot together growing up, taking cruises to the far reaches of the US and Mexico to the beautiful islands of Greece and most of Europe, experiencing the world together and having fun.

“Joe loved nothing more than to sit in the sun and enjoy the rays.

“I have happy memories of just sitting out drinking a beer with him and just talking about anything and everything.

“Everyone knew Joe for his calm, easy-going attitude, zest for life and never being one to shy away from new experiences.

“I will always remember him for his cheeky grin and his special ability to always cheer anyone up when they are feeling low – it was his superpower, I guess.

“He truly was one of a kind and although his light will never shine again he’ll always be remembered, never forgotten, loved and cherished by many.

“We miss him so much.”

Mr Robotham was allegedly hit to the head with a glass bottle outside Vibe during the early hours of February 8.

He sadly died at Sheffield’s Royal Hallamshire Hospital the following night.

Connor Rose, 24, of no fixed abode, was charged with murder and possession of an offensive weapon. He is due to stand trial later this year.

A second man, 28, was arrested on suspicion of affray and subsequently released on bail pending further enquiries.

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