Two men have been charged with the murder of Andrew Main, a 33-year-old music worker, who was tragically killed after stepping in to save a colleague from an attack outside a Swansea hotel in July 2023. Mr Main was working at the Let’s Rock Wales festival, which featured artists including Jason Donovan and Bob Geldof, when the fatal incident occurred.
Main, from Falkirk, Scotland, sustained a severe brain injury during the attack on July 17 and tragically passed away four weeks later on August 14 after receiving end-of-life care in Edinburgh, with his family by his side.
The two men accused, Joseph Nigel Dix (26) and Macauley Luke Ruddock (27), both from Somerset, pleaded not guilty to both the murder and the alternative charge of manslaughter at Swansea Crown Court. The trial is set to take place on January 6 next year.
Main’s family described him as a hero who selflessly intervened to protect a younger colleague. In a heartfelt statement, they said:
“Andrew saw a young colleague being attacked by two men. We all know Andrew and how heroic he is, so he went out to help.”
Mr. Main was a dedicated father of two, described by his sister Sharon Leebody as a “loyal and the best brother, dad, and uncle.” Sharon added:
“Becoming a dad was the making of Andrew. His friends idolised him, and he had an absolute passion for music. He was healthy, fit, and loved football and cycling.
Main had been working at the inaugural edition of the Let’s Rock Wales festival, which also featured UB40, Level 42, and The Boomtown Rats.
Detective Chief Inspector Matt Davies of South Wales Police urged witnesses to come forward with any information, CCTV, or dashcam footage related to the incident, which occurred near the Travelodge hotel on Princess Way at approximately 2am.
Main’s sister Nikki expressed the family’s devastation over his loss:
“Andrew – my baby brother – was taken from us far too soon. He was adored by family and friends, a witty man with a huge heart. The hole he has left will never be filled.”
The case remains ongoing, with the trial scheduled for next year.
