Derbyshire pensioner died after reports he was “violently assaulted”, inquest hears

An inquest heard a Derbyshire pensioner died in hospital six days after police and paramedics rushed to his home following reports he had been “violently assaulted”.
Chesterfield Coroners Court heard Alan Youd, 69, was found “unresponsive” with a “very noticeable head injury”Chesterfield Coroners Court heard Alan Youd, 69, was found “unresponsive” with a “very noticeable head injury”
Chesterfield Coroners Court heard Alan Youd, 69, was found “unresponsive” with a “very noticeable head injury”

Alan Youd, 69, was found “unresponsive” with a “very noticeable head injury” by an ambulance crew on August 11 at Chestnut Drive in Shirebrook.

Mr Youd – described as a “doting father, grandfather and father in law“ by family – was rushed to hospital however he never regained consciousness and died on August 17.

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Coroner Peter Nieto said a postmortem examination conducted by Professor Guy Rutty at King’s Mill Hospital on August 20 found Alan died of a head injury, “pending further tests”.

Mr Nieto, noting “a man has been arrested and charged” in relation to Alan’s death, said: “I have clear reason to suspect his death was not natural causes.

"The indication is his death is as a result of being assaulted.”

The coroner added: “This is a case that will inevitably be suspended pending criminal proceedings.

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"I will not be in a position to suspend this matter because it may be that the charge in relation to the arrested man may change – I will await the outcome of that first.”

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Mr Nieto adjourned the inquest until November 16 – at which date he would review the case and consider suspending it.

This afternoon police confirmed a murder probe had been launched following retired maintenance fitter and engineer Alan’s death.

They said another man, 53-year-old Arthur Cabourn, – also of Chestnut Drive, Shirebrook, – was charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent on August 12.

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In a statement released by police Alan’s family said: “We as a family are devastated. Our dad was a doting father, grandfather and father in law – we can never replace what we have lost.

“Dad was the biggest kid when he spent time with his grandchildren. He loved them dearly and they thought the world of him – they would always be spoiled by grandpa and he would take them out swimming and to all the local parks.

“His zest for life was continued in his love of motorcycles especially his Triumph Bonneville.

"He finally passed his test at 65 and he would often ring us when he has ridden out to the coast.

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“He would always try to help others where needed and was a regular blood donor giving 160 donations of blood and platelets.

“Dad’s memory will remain with us and his legacy lives on in his children and grandchildren. We will miss him more than words could ever portray and will love him forever.”

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