A war veteran who was attacked and robbed at his home has died of natural causes.

A post-mortem examination has been carried out on 81-year-old former submariner Reg Lockwood, of Broadway, Jaywick, following his death in Colchester General Hospital at the end of last month.

Det Con Tony Snow, who is investigating the attack four months ago, said the examination was carried out by both a Home Office and local pathologist.

"We have been informed that Mr Lockwood's death was not a result of the head injuries he received in the attack in September," he said.

"The matter will not be referred to the major investigation team and it has been put down as natural causes."

Det Con Snow promised both the incident in September - and an earlier break-in where medals and cash were stolen from Mr Lockwood's home - would continue to be investigated.

And he appealed for the public's help to catch those who were responsible for each.

Mr Lockwood was hit over the head with a milk bottle which he had filled himself for someone who called at his door claiming his car had broken down in the second incident.

The pensioner suffered a fractured cheekbone, other facial injuries, a black eye and later developed a blood clot on his brain.

He did return home for a short while but was then taken back into Colchester General Hospital, where he died on December 21.

Anyone who can help should contact police on 01255 221312.

Published Tuesday, January 7, 2003

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