STOURBRIDGE'S MP has called on West Midlands Police to "do better" to help the family of Ryan Passey in their continued fight for justice for their son who was stabbed to death in a town night spot.

The family has been seeking an independent review of the case in a bid to leave no stone unturned in their fight for justice for 24-year-old footballer Ryan from Quarry Bank whose killer, Kobe Murray, walked free from court in February 2018, acquitted of both murder and manslaughter, having pleaded self-defence.

An indepedent review was promised by the force in October after the family first spoke out, raising concerns about the original police investigation and questions that have remained unanswered in early 2020.

But they have now revealed the force has been having difficulty finding a suitable police force to conduct the review.

Jason Connon, spokesman for the Justice for Ryan campaign, said it was "extremely disappointing to hear" although he added: "They have agreed to meeting with us in the new year to discuss the proposed terms of reference for the new review and also to discuss the disclosure of content following the review previously conducted by their force.

"They have also given us a point of contact within WMP to liaise with going forward, so hopefully communication will be much improved."

Stourbridge's MP Suzanne Webb, who has supported the family since being elected in 2019, however, has urged the force to do more to help Ryan's devastated dad Ade, mum Gill and step-dad Phil as they seek justice for their son.

She said: "West Midlands Police told the family it would agree to an independent review of the original investigation months ago but since then nothing has happened.

"This is frustrating and disrespectful to this amazing family. We need progress on this and I hope in the new year we will see this happen. WMP needs to do better by this family. I will continue with my support until we finally have justice for Ryan."

West Midlands Police said the force was in the process of writing to Ryan's family, via their MP, to give an update and a spokesman added: "We have been trying to find another force who are able to conduct an independent review of our investigation into Ryan’s tragic death.

"Sadly, we have not been able to identify one to date. We are planning to arrange a meeting with Ryan’s family to discuss this further.

"We fully understand how difficult and upsetting this news is and hope to be able to talk to Ryan’s family about the next steps soon."

The family celebrated victory in a 'landmark' civil case against Kobe Murray, now known as Kareem Gayle, in November.

Claiming Gayle wrongfully and unlawfully caused the death of Wren's Nest FC midfielder Ryan, who was fatally stabbed at Chicago's in the Ryemarket in August 2017, the family made an application under the Fatal Accidents Act 1976, which offers the right to seek damages for a death caused by a wrongful act, neglect or default.

Gayle, who was 19 at the time of the incident, did not attend the hearing at Liverpool Civil and Family Court and offered no defence to the claim despite initially indicating he would defend it. Therefore a default judgement was made by the court and around £10,000 was awarded to Ryan's family in damages, and Gayle was left with a £12,000 court costs bill.