A grandfather collapsed and died from a suspected heart attack just hours after confronting yobs who terrorised his family at their Walsall home.

Devastated relatives of 58-year-old Michael Price said today that they blamed the thugs – who left him in fear after smashing the front door and hurling abuse – for contributing to his death.

His widow Beatrice said the father-of-two had been unable to sleep after the attacks on their home on Sunday evening.

Mr Price collapsed while working at engineering firm Cerro EMS Ltd in Goscote Lane, less than 12 hours later and his family believe the stress from the night before was a main factor.

Mrs Price said they heard a bang and thought yobs had thrown an object at their home or car, so her husband had gone out to investigate.

He was then verbally abused by tearaways, forcing him back inside, and a window in the front door window was smashed. She said the attack was the latest on the family who have had their home broken into and car windows smashed.

Mrs Price, aged 55, of Hildicks Crescent, Goscote,said: “If this hadn’t happened I am convinced my husband would still be here now. He was healthy and happy and if he was feeling unwell he would have told me. We were looking forward to moving house in the near future.

“Nobody knows how much I am going to miss him as we were never apart, I have lost my soul mate.”

She said: “We need people to come forward and speak out. I would urge anyone who may have seen something to call the police.”

Family friend Councillor Ann Young, said: “This is a tragedy. And I have no doubt the abuse and mindless vandalism contributed to Mr Price’s death.”

Witnesses should call the police on 0845 113 5000.

By Craig Hughes