Elderly 'angler in his 60s' dies after 'teenagers threw rocks' in castle grounds

29 May 2020, 13:55

An elderly man in his 60s has died after an altercation with two teenagers at a castle in which "rocks were thrown".

The victim, who has been named as Charles Hilder, got into a confrontation with two boys or teenagers near a lake within the grounds of Lullingstone Castle in Kent.

He was pronounced dead at the scene after ambulance crews arrived.

Police said it was reported that rocks were being thrown during the altercation before the man's death yesterday afternoon.

The victim is believed to be one of three brothers who were fishing at the time.

Mr Hilder, known as Charlie locally, was paid tribute to by the Kingfisher Angling and Preservation Society.

A society spokesman said: "The society has been shocked and greatly saddened to hear of the death of Mr Charles Hilder.

"At this stage we would like to pass on our sincere condolences to Charlie's family and friends."

Formal identification by police is yet to take place.

Police have taped off the entrance to the castle while an investigation takes place.

The estate in Eynsford, Kent has been owned by members of the same family since the 14th century.

It is also near the famous Brands Hatch Circuit.

Kent Police said officers were called to the grounds at 5.21pm on Thursday.

In a statement, they added: "Officers and South East Coast Ambulance Service attended and a man in his 60s was pronounced dead at the scene.

"It is reported he may have been involved in an altercation with two boys or teenagers near to a lake within in the grounds, prior to his death.

"Investigators are appealing for information from anybody who was in the area, including dog walkers, anglers and golfers, who witnessed the incident or saw two young people in the vicinity of the lake between 12pm and 7pm.

"They are also keen to obtain video footage from any vehicles that travelled along Castle Road or Shoreham Road, and any cyclists or joggers in the area between these times."

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation should call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting reference 28-1127.

Anybody with video footage can make a report through the Kent Police section of the Major Incident Public Reporting Site: https://mipp.police.uk/

You can also contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, or by completing an online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org