The family of a 66-year-old man who died after being attacked outside his local pub have paid a moving tribute to a 'devoted' father and grandfather.
A Life Tragically Cut Short
David Darke, known to friends and family as Dave, passed away in hospital on Saturday, six days after he was punched outside The Crown Public House in Appleby Magna, Leicestershire. The incident occurred on Church Street just before 9.45pm on Sunday, 26 May.
In a heartfelt statement, his grieving family 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," they said. "A devoted family man with a deep passion for life, the outdoors, nature and walking."
Mr Darke, who lived alone in a bungalow in the picturesque village on the edge of the National Forest, worked at a local hotel. A neighbour said he was a 'very nice man' and that the community was deeply shocked by the violent crime in a normally quiet area.
Police Investigation and Community Shock
Leicestershire Police confirmed that a 36-year-old man, initially arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, was later re-arrested on suspicion of murder. He remains in police custody. The investigation is being led by the East Midlands Special Operations Unit (EMSOU).
Officers are appealing for anyone with information who has not yet come forward to contact them. Mr Darke was treated at the scene before being taken to the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham, where he later died from his head injuries.
Residents of Appleby Magna expressed their profound sadness and shock. Chris Adams, 71, who lives next door to the pub, said: "We've been here for 24 years and it's very unusual for anything like this to happen. It's such a quiet village and such a lovely pub."
A Village in Mourning
The sense of a close-knit community rocked by tragedy was palpable. Millie Newall, 21, revealed her father was walking the dog at the time and was the one who called the ambulance. "It's quite scary. But things like this do happen. It's a quiet village and it's strange for something like this to happen here," she said.
Other villagers, Paul and Julie Sambrook, described the attack as 'totally out of the blue'. Mrs Sambrook added: "It's quite a shock. It's totally out of character for this village. We've never come across anything like this before."
The family's tribute concluded: "His life was tragically cut short and he's now reunited with his loving, caring parents. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him."
