POLICE have launched a murder investigation after a man who was allegedly attacked in Poole has died.

At 8.31pm on December 17, Dorset Police was called by the ambulance service to reports that a man aged in his 80s had been assaulted at an address in Phyldon Close in Parkstone.

Charles Roy Taylor, 82, sustained a serious head injury and was taken to hospital for treatment.

Police said he died in hospital last night.

His family has been informed and is being kept updated by specially-trained officers.

Matthew Locks from Poole, 26, who was known to Mr Taylor, was arrested at the scene and later charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

He appeared at Poole Magistrates’ Court on December 19 and the case was adjourned until January 17 at Bournemouth Crown Court.

Detective Inspector Richard Dixey, of Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “We have regularly updated the family of Mr Taylor during the course of the investigation and our family liaison officers will continue to support them.

“Due to the ongoing court process it would be entirely inappropriate for Dorset Police to comment any further at this stage as it is vital that the justice system is allowed to follow its course.”

Anyone with information about the incident who has not already spoken to officers is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence 55180202137.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.