The heartbroken family of a Bolton pensioner who died after being robbed and beaten in his own home have paid tribute to him.
Frank Worsley, 87, was attacked when he was woken up by an intruder who broke into his home on Longfield Road, Bolton, at about 12.40am on August 3.
Frank was admitted to hospital after suffering a stroke and a bleed to his brain, but sadly died there on Tuesday afternoon.
In a statement, his family said: “Frank was a loving father to Steven and Catherine, grandfather to Karen and Michael. He was also a father-in-law, brother-in-law and a friend to many.
“Frank fought in WW2. He was in the Royal Navy Medical Corps and had written about his time on board various war ships, giving his family a snippet of how life was during the war.
“He was married to Mary, who sadly passed away in September 2012 having suffered for many years with Multiple Scoliosis.
“They had been married for 62 years and received a message from the Queen when they celebrated the 60th Wedding Anniversary.
“Frank loved Amateur Operatics and used to perform with a group at St Marks Church (which no longer exists). Frank was also a Founder of the Youth Club at the Church.
“He was also involved with St Bedes Church, where he was a Sunday School Teacher and also organised trips and parties. He was also a regular speaker at the local Women’s Institute, giving talks on various subjects.
“On leaving the navy, Frank worked at the Co-Operative Society in the Grocery Department, followed by a job with Scholes & Scholes, the gents’ outfitters, and then moved onto Hoover as a Planning Clerk.
“He went on to take early retirement at the age of 63, to become full-time carer for his wife.
“He was an all-round good guy. Frank was very popular in the community and would chat and help out anybody he could. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.”
Daniel Crompton, 24, of no fixed address, has been charged with robbery in connection with this incident.
He is next due to appear at Bolton Crown Court on August 23.
Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 2448 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
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