A 66-year-old grandfather has tragically died following an assault outside a village pub in Leicestershire, leaving his family devastated.
Family pays tribute to 'devoted' man
The family of David Drake, known affectionately as Dave, have released a heartfelt statement honouring his memory. They described him as a deeply loved father to three daughters and a proud grandfather to three boys.
"He was a strong, active, intelligent and kind person who was a friend to all," the family said. "A devoted family man with a deep passion for life, the outdoors, nature and walking."
They added that his life was tragically cut short and that he is now reunited with his parents. "He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him," the statement concluded.
Details of the assault and investigation
The incident occurred on Sunday, 21 December outside The Crown Inn on Church Street in Appleby Magna. Mr Drake suffered a serious head injury during the assault.
He was rushed to Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham for emergency treatment but sadly succumbed to his injuries six days later, on 27 December.
Leicestershire Police confirmed that a 36-year-old man, initially arrested in connection with the assault, was re-arrested on suspicion of murder on 27 December and remains in police custody.
Ongoing police appeal for witnesses
The investigation, led by the East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU), is continuing. Detective Inspector Kevin Hames from the EMSOU Murder Investigation Team stated that initial enquiries had identified several witnesses and secured CCTV footage from the area.
"Those enquiries will continue and the suspect will be re-interviewed by detectives," DI Hames said. "It is an extremely difficult time for Mr Darke's family and specialist officers are supporting them."
Police are urgently appealing for more witnesses to come forward. "We would still encourage anyone who was in Church Street last Sunday evening and hasn't yet spoken with officers to get in touch," DI Hames urged. "We need to speak to as many people as possible who can help us piece together what happened that evening."
Anyone with information is asked to contact Leicestershire Police immediately.
