Grandfather dies facing hoodies

A grandfather who died after confronting a gang of hoodies breaking into a neighbour's car, has been named by police.

His family has been left distraught by his death.

James Barrett, 62, was looking after his grandson and granddaughter when he heard the teenagers smash the window of the car outside his house in the Anfield district of Liverpool late at night.

The retired dockworker raced outside without even stopping to put on his shoes or socks and chased the youths away. He followed them down Bingley Road but as he turned into Priory Road he collapsed to the ground.

His wife Mary and neighbours ran to his aid and he was rushed to hospital but later died.

Merseyside Police said it was not yet clear whether Mr Barrett, who was known to his friends as Jim, had been struck by any of the youths.

Detective Chief Superintendent Peter Currie said there were no obvious injuries on the grandfather's body but a post mortem would be carried out.

His distraught family said: "We are completely shocked and devastated by this. Jim was a wonderful man who would do anything for anyone.

"As well as being a wonderful father, husband and granddad he was a true Liverpool supporter, with a real love of football." He leaves behind two adult sons who also live in the area.

The gang was thought to number about five youths aged between 13 and 15 who were wearing tracksuits, some with hooded tops.