Heartbreak at death of robbery victim, 88

The son of a pensioner who died a week after being found in the street following an apparent robbery said yesterday he was "heartbroken" by his death.

Police said they believe John Gillespie, 88, was pushed to the ground during an attempted robbery in Stirling on 19 April.

He was taken to Stirling Royal Infirmary where he died on Monday, his 64th wedding anniversary.

His son, also John Gillespie, said his father was a "gentleman", who was "always immaculately dressed, never without a shirt and tie and often with his trilby hat". He said his father loved walking and had been looking forward to seeing the spring blossom around Stirling.

In a statement released by Central Scotland police, he said: "My dad was a father of four and grandfather of 11. He kept a close eye on all our achievements, big or small, and was a proud man.

"He was well-loved by his family and within the wider local community. He lost his daughter Louise in February this year and was supported throughout by his family and friends.

"He had a fantastic relationship with our mum, Agnes. It was their 64th wedding anniversary on the day he died."

Mr Gillespie, of Achray Drive in the city, was found injured by a passer-by in the underpass at Lover's Walk, Stirling, at 2.50pm on 19 April. The robber is 21 to 40 years old, about 6ft and slim.