Appleby Magna Mourns After Pub Attack Claims Local Grandfather

In the quiet village of Appleby Magna, nestled on the edge of the National Forest in North West Leicestershire, tragedy struck just days before Christmas, leaving a community reeling and a family mourning the loss of a beloved father and grandfather. David Darke, a 66-year-old hotel worker known affectionately as Dave, died on Saturday, December 27, 2025, six days after sustaining a serious head injury in an assault outside The Crown Inn, a local pub that sits at the heart of the village.

According to Leicestershire Police, emergency services were called to Church Street, the location of The Crown Inn, at around 9:45 pm on Sunday, December 21. Officers responding to the scene found Mr. Darke had been punched outside the pub, resulting in a grave head injury. He was rushed to the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham, where he succumbed to his injuries nearly a week later. The incident, initially treated as grievous bodily harm, quickly escalated into a murder investigation following Mr. Darke's death, as reported by Sky News and corroborated by BBC News and other outlets.

Police confirmed that a 36-year-old man, who was originally arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm, was subsequently re-arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody. The investigation, led by the East Midlands Special Operations Unit, continues to examine CCTV footage and gather witness statements to piece together the events of that night. Detective Inspector Kevin Hames, the senior investigating officer, emphasized the complexity of the case and the ongoing nature of police enquiries. "The initial investigation resulted in us identifying several witnesses and examining CCTV from the area. Those enquiries will continue and the suspect will be re-interviewed by detectives," Hames stated, as quoted by ITV News and The Independent. He also urged anyone who was in Church Street on the evening of December 21 and who has not yet spoken with officers to come forward, underscoring the importance of community assistance in solving the case.

The loss of David Darke has sent shockwaves through Appleby Magna, a village not accustomed to violent incidents. Neighbors and residents expressed their disbelief and sadness. Chris Adams, who lives next door to the pub, told LeicestershireLive, "We've been here for 24 years and it's very unusual for anything like this to happen. We were shocked because it's such a quiet village and such a lovely pub. The landlady at The Crown does a tremendous job. The pub is at the centre of the community and we've never known of any trouble there." Others echoed his sentiments, describing the event as "totally out of the blue" and "totally out of character for this village."

For those who knew Dave personally, the tragedy is deeply felt. He lived alone in a tidy bungalow not far from the pub, and worked at a local hotel. Neighbors described him as a "very nice man," quiet and gentle, who kept mostly to himself but was always friendly. One neighbor, speaking to the Daily Mail, remarked, "It's so very sad. Everyone is very shocked." Social media tributes poured in as well. Sheila Carlberg shared, "I worked with Dave at 3M, he was a nice friendly man who chatted to us at breaktime. How he got into this bother is beyond me as he was quiet and gentle. So sorry." Julie Davis recalled meeting him just months before: "He was telling me about his daughters and his van he bought to go off anywhere and walk for miles and miles."

David Darke's family released a heartfelt statement, painting a picture of a man whose life was defined by love, kindness, and a zest for the outdoors. Their words, consistently quoted across Sky News, BBC News, ITV News, and The Independent, read: "Dave was a deeply loved father to three daughters and a proud grandfather to three boys. He was a much-loved brother and a dear friend. Dave will live on forever in our hearts, minds and souls. He was a strong, active, intelligent and kind person who was a friend to all. He was a devoted family man with a deep passion for life, the outdoors, nature and walking. His life was tragically cut short and he's now reunited with his loving, caring parents. He will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him."

The outpouring of grief and tributes from both family and community members highlights the impact Dave had on those around him. His story, as told by those closest to him, is one of a man who cherished nature, relished long walks, and found joy in the company of his family. He was remembered not only for his devotion to his daughters and grandsons but also for his gentle spirit and the friendships he fostered throughout his life.

As the police investigation continues, officers remain steadfast in their appeal for information. Detective Inspector Hames reiterated the need for witnesses, saying, "We would still encourage anyone who was in Church Street last Sunday evening and hasn’t yet spoken with officers to get in touch. We need to speak to as many people as possible who can help us piece together what happened that evening." The force has also stated that specialist officers are supporting Mr. Darke’s family during this extremely difficult time.

The Crown Inn, described by locals as a "friendly, cordial drinking establishment," has become the unlikely backdrop for a case that has shaken the village to its core. Residents like Paul and Julie Sambrook, who have lived in Appleby Magna for five years, said they had never experienced anything like this before. "It's quite a shock. It's totally out of character for this village. We've never come across anything like this before," Mrs. Sambrook told reporters.

While the investigation unfolds and the suspect remains in custody, the village of Appleby Magna is left grappling with the sudden loss of one of its own. The sense of safety that once characterized this picturesque community has been momentarily shattered, replaced by sorrow and a collective longing for answers. Yet, in the midst of tragedy, the tributes to David Darke serve as a testament to the enduring bonds of family, friendship, and community—a reminder that even in the darkest times, the memory of a life well-lived can bring comfort and unity.

As Appleby Magna mourns, the hope remains that justice will be served, and that David Darke's legacy as a devoted family man and friend to all will be remembered for years to come.