'Inconclusive' post-mortem on bullied man

A post-mortem examination into the death of a 64-year-old man who was "tormented" by yobs proved inconclusive, police said today.

Detectives ordered further tests to be carried out on the body of David Askew, who was found dead outside his home in Hattersley, Greater Manchester, on Wednesday night.

An 18-year-old man was arrested yesterday on suspicion of manslaughter.

Officers were called to his Melandra Crescent address after reports that youngsters were causing an "annoyance" at the property.

They found Mr Askew, who had learning difficulties, collapsed outside and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

A Greater Manchester Police spokeswoman said: "A post-mortem examination into the death of David Askew has proved inconclusive.

"Further tests will have to be carried out to determine the exact cause of the 64-year-old's death.

"An 18-year-old who was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter remains in police custody for questioning."

It emerged that the authorities were warned years ago that he was being targeted by gangs where he lived with his wheelchair-bound mother Rose and his brother Brian.

One neighbour said Mr Askew had been "tormented to death - like bear-baiting".

His mother paid tribute to her son, saying "he wouldn't hurt a fly".

In a statement issued by Greater Manchester Police (GMP), she said: "Throughout the day I have seen and heard different reports by the press about my son and about what has happened.

"I just want to say that David was a very happy person. He was kind and thoughtful. He was a true gentleman and would often help me around the house and with shopping.

"He wouldn't hurt a fly and he never saw bad in anyone. He always put others first."

Mr Askew's neighbour, shop worker Avona Davies, 49, said youngsters harassed him for a decade.

She said: "This has been going on for about 10 years. We have complained to the police and council and they put cameras in their back garden about three years ago.

"They tormented David for money and cigarettes. They harassed him every night without fail.

"For the past two or three weeks, the harassment has moved to the front of the house, which never usually happened."

But detectives insisted they had done everything possible to protect Mr Askew.

Chief Superintendent Zoe Hamilton, of Greater Manchester Police, said some of the yobs were given anti-social behaviour orders for harassing the victim.

After previous police contact with the family, the force voluntarily made a referral to the police watchdog, the Independent Police Complaints Commission, a spokesman said.

Officers are continuing to appeal for witnesses to the incident.

Anyone with any further information should contact the major incident room at Ashton-under-Lyne police station on 0161 856 9283 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Two policemen stood guard outside the house today, as a council worker boarded up the gap left by Mr Askew's gate, which was removed for evidence.

Flowers marked the spot where he died, left by his neighbours and friends.

"Dave you will be sadly missed by lots and never forgotten. Always in our thoughts, now you can rest in peace, from Lisa, Von and family," a card left at the scene read.

"Hope your family get justice for what these people have done to you. You are in a safer place now. Candice and Daniel," was written on a note pinned to a teddy bear.

Another tribute, from "Karen and Penny" simply said: "Hope you get justice. Sleep tight."