Kentish Express Ashford & District
Fresh appeal for help to catch pensioner’s killers
A year on from the brutal murder of a pensioner in his own home detectives are renewing their appeal for information.
Roy Blackman, a bird breeder and mechanic, disturbed burglars after they broke into his Biddenden bungalow in the early hours.
The 73-year-old was punched, kicked and stamped on before being stripped naked in an attempt to destroy evidence.
A safe containing about£250,000, an air rifle and jewellery was stolen from the Headcorn Road property. The safe has never been recovered.
Eight men were arrested in connection with the investigation.
In May father-of-four William “Curly Bill” Smith was shot dead by police officers during a firefight in a Goudhurst orchard.
He was on the run having previously been arrested and bailed on suspicion of murder.
In September 38-year-old Mark Love from Staplehurst was found guilty of murder, as well as another aggravated burglary in Sussex, at Maidstone Crown Court.
He was sentenced to life imprisonment and will serve a minimum of 28 years before being considered for parole.
Officers believe others were involved and are keen to speak to anyone who may know what happened that night.
DCI Nick Gossett said: “One person has been convicted of Mr Blackman’s murder, however, we firmly believe there were other people involved in the tragic incidents of that night and we believe there are people who know who they are.
“However small or insignificant you think the information you have is, we still want to hear from you as it may be the missing piece in our jigsaw.
“We’re hoping that a year on, people will realise Mr Blackman’s family are still waiting for justice to be fully served and I would encourage anyone with information who is yet to talk to us to come forward.”
Scores of mourners paid their respects to Mr Blackman last May at his funeral at St Michael’s Church in Smarden.
Anyone with information is asked to call the dedicated Kent and Essex SCD appeal line on 01303 289600. Alternatively, you can call Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.