Pensioner dies following 'attack'

An elderly woman has died days after being attacked at her home, Sussex Police said

6 April 2014

A 70-year-old woman has died in hospital days after being attacked in her village home, police have said.

Sandra Boakes was left critically ill following the attack at her house in Grasmere Avenue, Sompting, near Worthing, West Sussex, on Thursday night.

Last night she died at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton, Sussex Police said. A post-mortem examination will be carried out next week.

Detective Inspector Gordon Denslow said: "Sadly, Mrs Boakes succumbed to her injuries early on Saturday evening and passed away at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton.

"Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this dreadfully tragic time."

A 79-year-old man, Dudley Boakes, who is reportedly her husband, was charged before her death with her attempted murder.

He was remanded in custody at Brighton Magistrates' Court yesterday morning to appear at Lewes Crown Court on April 25.