British teen arrested over 'tormented' pensioner's death

A teenager has been arrested on suspicion of the manslaughter and harassment of a pensioner who was allegedly "tormented to death" outside his home.

The 17-year-old is being questioned in connection with the death of David Askew, 64, who died after a confrontation outside his house in Hattersley, Greater Manchester, on March 10.

He was found collapsed when police were called to his address on Melandra Crescent at 9.30 p.m., and was later pronounced dead.

Kial Cottingham, 18, of Sylvester Way, Hattersley, has previously been charged with harassing Mr Askew, who had learning difficulties.

Minutes before the police arrived, Mr Askew's family reported a disturbance. Neighbours said the pensioner, who lived with his mother and brother, had been hounded by a gang of youths for a decade.

Avona Davies, 49, said: "This has been going on for about 10 years. They tormented David for money and cigarettes. They harassed him every night without fail."

Another neighbour said he had been "tormented to death - like bear baiting".

Mr Cottingham was remanded in custody after appearing at Tameside Magistrates' Court charged with harassment.

A post-mortem examination was inconclusive and further tests will be conducted to establish Mr Askew's cause of death, police said.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said officials will study how police handled a string of complaints of anti-social behaviour.