Family’s tribute to murdered war veteran

William Davis was found collapsed at his Hobley Street residence in Willenhall, West Midlands, on Sunday evening.

The 92-year-old, who served with the Royal Navy, died as a result of severe head injuries, West Midlands Police said.

A local woman, aged 35, has been charged with his murder and is due to appear before magistrates in Wolverhampton today.

Police investigating the murder have appealed for help from the community to trace items of clothing, including a blue puffa-style jacket which is thought to be heavily blood-stained.

Mr Davis was a father of two, with four grandchildren and one great-grandchild. His son, Tom Davis, paid tribute to him.

He said: “My father was a well-respected and likeable man who never did anyone any harm. He loved his family and when my mum died in 2006 he was devastated after 63 years of marriage.

“He also lost my sister in 2008, which broke his heart but he carried on...He was a very proud and independent man. He will be sadly missed by me and my wife and also his close relatives and neighbours.”