Mugging 'led to couple's death'

Relatives say the couple rarely went out without each other

The family of an elderly couple who both died just days after the husband was mugged, believe the robbery led to their deaths.

Jack Martin, 84, was wrestled to the ground by a thief at Kingsholm Post Office in Gloucester on 12 August.

The offender escaped with his wallet, containing £250.

Four days later his wife Lily, 85, died. On 28 August, Mr Martin was found by a relative hanged in his home in the city's Edwy Parade.

'Inseparable' couple

Brothers-in-law Percy Lane and David Wootton said the couple were "inseparable".

"They very seldom went out without each other," said Mr Lane. "Lil was very much Jack's soulmate."

Mrs Martin was receiving medication for an illness at the time but her family believe the mugging exacerbated her condition and led to her death.

Mr Wootton said: "It shook them both up terribly.

"Jack was so angry about what had happened and he was upset about the effect it had on Lil more than anything. She wasn't well at all."

The couple had been married for 64 years and Mr Martin was said to be "distraught" after his wife's death.

Mr Lane said: "He would walk around the house calling her name. They spent so much time together."

A 31-year-old man arrested on suspicion of stealing Mr Martin's wallet has been released on police bail until 7 September pending further inquiries.