Peter Gouldstone: War veteran, 98, dies weeks after violent robbery at London home left him critically injured

Police say ‘a number of active enquiries are in hand’ in effort to find those responsible

A 98-year-old Second World War veteran who was brutally attacked and robbed at his own home has died in hospital.

Peter Gouldstone was left with bruising to his body and two bleeds to the brain after burglars broke into his house in Bounds Green, north London.

After several weeks in hospital, he died in the early hours of Friday, the Met Police confirmed.

Mr Gouldstone had worked on phone lines in Italy during the Second World War before going on to a career in the Post Office and retiring in 1980.

He was found in a “semi-conscious state” by his son Simon on 6 November.

There was evidence of a disturbance at the property, and a number of his possessions had been taken by the thieves including his television.

No arrests have been made, but the police said “a number of active enquiries are in hand” and the investigation is still ongoing.

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, no matter how small a detail, to search their conscience and contact police without delay.

“I particularly want to hear from people that may have been offered the Panasonic television that was stolen, or who saw either people or vehicles in the vicinity of Evesham Road, Enfield, N11 that may have appeared out of place.”

The independent charity Crimestoppers is offering a reward of up to £10,000 for any information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.