Sunday Mirror (Northern Ireland)
WAR HERO , 98 , DIES WEEKS AFTER ATTACK
Veteran never saw justice done
THE 98-year-old war veteran who was savagely beaten in his own home by sadistic robbers has died.
Brave Peter Gouldstone – who was awarded three medals for service to his country during World War II – lost his fight for life in the early hours of Friday.
He died without seeing justice done because no one has yet been arrested.
Yesterday Peter’s neighbours in Enfield, North London, expressed their shock.
One described Peter as a “nice, friendly gentleman” and demanded to know: “Why? Why would someone do that to a 98-year-old? It doesn’t make sense. This is unforgivable.”
Patrick Stokes, 26, who has lived on Peter’s street for a year, said it was “terrible” news. Speaking about the attackers, he added: “They need to be brought to justice.”
Frail, housebound Peter was pictured by his horrified family battered, bruised and unconcious in hospital after the vicious attack on November 6 – five days before Remembrance Day.
The old man who had a heart condition suffered two brain bleeds and serious bruising when he was dragged from his bed and punched in the face.
His home of more than 60 years was ransacked before the robbers left with a decades old Panasonic TV set, worth just £20, and other personal possessions. Last night Met police repeated their appeal for witnesses. Detective Inspector Paul Ridley, said: “We are all shocked and saddened by the news of Peter’s death. It is the worst news for his family and for all those who cared for and knew him. “I urge anyone who has information to search their conscience and contact police without delay. I particularly want to hear from people that may have been offered the Panasonic television .” At the time of the attack, Peter’s son Simon, 67, described his dad as “a low key, peaceful and supportive sort of person” . He added: “As a member of the family I’m shocked. “As a member of the human race I’m lost for words at man’s inhumanity to man, I’m afraid.” Crimestoppers are offering a £10,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.