Veteran vows to bounce back after robbery Family pays tribute

A 97-year-old Second World War veteran has vowed to bounce back after a “horrific” doorstep robbery at his own home.

Harry Melling was pushed to the floor and had his wallet ripped from his trousers in the attack at his home in Newtown, Wigan.

The widower who risked his life serving his country on submarines during the war, said: “It was a shock. It unsettled me for quite a period of time and it has disturbed me.

“I had had a friend in the house. We had been having a drink and a chat and he left. I remember this fellow at the door and after that it was vague.

“However, although I would say that I was afraid at the time, I’m certainly not afraid now. I find that a bit remarkable but it has affected me.

“At 97, you have supposedly seen it all but this was definitely a new thing and I have had to try to overcome it.

“I wouldn’t say I am brave, probably more stubborn.”

The incident happened at around 10pm on Thursday October 12. A woman who died at a property in Edinburgh will be “sorely missed”, her family has said.

Moira Gilbertson, 57, died at an address on Dumbiedykes Road on Saturday October 14. Police are treating her death as murder. A 52-year-old man appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday in connection with the incident, where he was remanded in custody.

Harry Melling says he is ‘stubborn’.