TWO men appeared in court yesterday charged with the manslaughter of a grandfather who died during an alleged robbery.

Timothy Smith, 57, of Alfreda Avenue, Hullbridge, died after hitting his head on a low wall during an incident in nearby The Drive on March 19.

Colin Garrod, 50, of Crowborough Road, Southend, was arrested shortly after the incident and already faced charges of robbery and possession of criminal property.

Garrod appeared via videolink at Southend Magistrates’ Court as the new charge was read out.

He spoke only to confirm his name, age and address. Garrod was not allowed to enter a plea at the lower court because the charge is too serious.

Stephen Sparks, prosecuting, said: “Mr Garrod is alleged to have been involved in an incident, basically a robbery, at a residential address which has resulted, regrettably, in the death of Mr Timothy Smith.”

It is understood that Mr Smith was with his wife and another couple on their way home from the pub at about 11pm when the incident took place.

He hit his head on a low wall on the driveway of the couple’s property and died as a result of a brain haemorrhage at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, in Cambridge, the following day.

Andrew McVicar, 33, of Dewsgreen, Basildon, appeared separately by videolink.

Shaven-headed McVicar again only spoke to confirm his name, age and address.

Mr Sparks told magistrates: “You have heard the previous case which is linked to the same facts. You have heard the seriousness of it.”

Mr Smith previously lived in Stanford-le-Hope and worked as a roofer, at the BP oil refinery in Corringham and at Tilbury Power Station.

He was made redundant and purchased the firm Doors, Floors and Stairparts, based in London Road, Pitsea, which he ran until his death.

Mr Smith was a well-known character in Hullbridge and was popular on the village social scene, where he was known for his love of Elvis and karaoke.

Mr Smith leaves behind his wife Lesley, two daughters Shellie, 33, and Natalie, 26, and four grandchildren. A third daughter, Jackie, 35, died four years ago.

Jamie Caborn, 28, of Luncies Road, Basildon, is charged with possession of criminal property in relation to the robbery, namely £10,000 in cash.

All three men are due to appear at Basildon Crown Court on Tuesday, July 25.