War hero dies after street mugging

Police described the attack on the popular former hairdresser as horrific.

They are appealing for witnesses and information following the death in hospital of Jacques Manlow.

Mr Manlow and his wife Marion were due to celebrate their Diamond wedding in August.

Detective Inspector Mark Ling, head of Rother CID, is leading the investigation.

He said: "The victim, who lived in the town, was walking along Parkhurst Road at about 3.15pm on Friday, June 17, when he was pushed against a wall by the robbers who took his wallet from his jacket pocket.

"He fell to the ground as the pair made off in the direction off Albert Road.

"One of the men then returned to the pensioner, who used to serve in the Royal Navy, putting his wallet back into his pocket as he lay on the pavement.

"An ambulance was called and the victim was taken to the Conquest Hospital in Hastings, suffering a fractured hip and a cut to the hand. After surgery, he appeared to be recovering but suddenly died on Friday evening.

"This was an horrific crime and is now being investigated as robbery and manslaughter. We are urging the public to come forward with any information, no matter how insignificant it may seem.

"A team of 20 officers have been carrying out extensive enquiries since Mr Manlow died and three local men have been arrested."

Det Insp Ling added: "If anyone saw what happened, or thinks they know who is responsible, then we would urge them to contact police immediately on 0845 60 70 999 quoting Operation Pad or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111."

r TWO Bexhill men appeared briefly before Hastings Magistrates Court charged with robbing Jacques Manlow in Parkhurst Road on Friday, June 17. They were Raymond Atkins, 32, of Albert Road and Philip Trevor Howell, 27, of Rotherfield Avenue. Both were remanded in custod until October 7.

A third man was released on bail.