Mother pays tribute to man 'hounded to death by yobs'

The mother of a man who neighbours claim was "hounded to death" by yobs paid tribute to her son yesterday night, saying he was a "true gentleman".

Police and authorities were warned David Askew was being targeted years before he was found dead at his home in Hattersley, Greater Manchester, it emerged.

His mother, Rose, said David Askew, 64, who had learning difficulties, was a "very happy person" who "wouldn't hurt a fly".

Mr Askew, who lived with his brother, Brian, and wheelchair-bound mother, was found dead outside his house after police were told youngsters were causing an "annoyance" at his property last night.

According to one neighbour, Mr Askew's ordeal had been "like bear-baiting".

Gangs - some of whom have anti-social behaviour orders for harassing the victim - had launched a "particular spate" of attacks recently, the officer leading the investigation said.

His mother 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, Avona Davies, 49, said his torment had been going on for some time.

The shop worker 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. Last night it started really early. I got home about 6.30 and it was already happening. We have stopped complaining for about 12 months because nothing gets done."

Police officers called to the address in Melandra Crescent last night discovered Mr Askew collapsed outside. He had not been attacked and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Mrs Askew said: "I would like to tell you how the police have been a great help to me. We have had a lot of issues over the years with kids causing problems. Over the last two years the police have been superb. We have had regular contact with the local beat officers and they often pop by to see how we are doing.