Major investigation launched after Helmshore man dies following break-in at his home
Detectives believe the attack on the 85-year-old may have been targeted
An 85-year-old man has died months after he was attacked during a break-in at his home in Helmshore.
Gordon Nicholass, who lived on Moss Close with his wife, was assaulted when he confronted intruders who forced their way into the house.
Lancashire Police were called shortly before 3am on Wednesday 29th April.
What happened
The offenders broke in and attacked Mr Nicholass when he confronted them.
He was taken to hospital with a head injury and cuts to his face.
He was originally discharged, but was taken back to hospital earlier this month and died on 12th August.
A Home Office post-mortem examination has been carried out, but police said further enquiries are being made to establish whether the assault was a cause or contributory factor in his death.
Family tribute
In a tribute, Gordon's family said: "Gordon was a wonderful husband, dad and granddad. He was a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast and well known for his engineering skills. He was always there to do anything for anyone- family, friends even strangers, you name it! Mister fix it, Jack of all trades, we will all miss him dearly."
His family are being supported by specially trained family liaison officers.
The investigation
The force's Major Investigation Team is now working to identify those responsible.
Police said extensive damage was caused during the burglary, although it does not appear anything was taken.
Officers believe the attack may have been targeted and are working to establish a motive and the circumstances.
House-to-house enquiries are being carried out in the area, alongside CCTV checks and other lines of enquiry.
Detective Chief Inspector Jill Vescovi, of the Force Major Investigation Team, said: "First and foremost my thoughts are with Gordon's family and loved ones. We will continue to offer them any support they need at this time.
"We are working hard to try and establish who has done this and why and I would appeal to anyone with any information, however insignificant they may think it is, to come forward and speak to us.
"I would ask anyone in the area to please check CCTV /Doorbell cameras for any suspicious activity, people or vehicles that may have been in the area at around the time of the offence or in the days beforehand."
Anyone with information can call police on 101, quoting log 0126 of 29th April.
Information can also be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.