Postmaster's son shot dead in raid

Jan 9 2009

The son of a village postmaster has been shot dead during an armed robbery by masked gunmen.

Neighbours said Craig Hodson-Walker suffered fatal chest injuries in the attack at a family-run business in Fairfield, north Worcestershire.

His father Ken was shot in the leg as raiders armed with a handgun and a sledgehammer targeted Fairfield Post Office and Stores. Witnesses told police that three men wearing balaclavas raced away from the Stourbridge Road store in a silver VW Golf.

Residents said a car was seen loitering near the store, which is opposite a primary school, shortly before the robbery. Police launched a massive manhunt for the men, bringing in specialist search teams, dog handlers and a helicopter.

Villager Eddie Bretherton, 76, said the postmaster's wife Judy ran to a neighbouring house after the shooting.

Retired engineer Mr Bretherton, who lives a few doors down, said: "They live over the shop. We understand Ken has been shot in the leg and Craig has died."

He said the family came from south Wales and Craig was engaged to be married.

"They are very nice people. We exchanged pleasantries in the ordinary way. We saw them in the pub when they were there for a meal. One of the reasons we moved here was the Post Office. We go in regularly."

Yvonne Froud, 52, bought the Hodson-Walkers' previous shop, situated in the Forest of Dean in the village of Lydbrook, from the family five years ago. She said the family owned the shop for 17 years.

Ms Froud said: "They were a lovely family. My heart goes out to them."