North holidaymaker killed by muggers

Jul 7 2008 by Liz Hands, The Journal

A GOLFER who slipped into a coma after he was mugged while on holiday has died.

David Morley had been enjoying a golfing holiday with his wife Marie in the exclusive resort of Vilamoura in the Algarve, Portugal, when he was set upon by muggers.

The 64-year-old, of Ryton, Gateshead, was believed to be taking a short-cut to catch up with members of his golfing party when he was attacked on Friday, June 27.

He was found lying in a street of the town suffering severe head injuries by a passer-by at around 3am.

He was rushed to the Sao Jose hospital in Lisbon and placed in intensive care after slipping into a coma. But his wife Marie made the devastating decision to allow his life support machine to be switched off on Friday after tests found he was brain dead.

A former school friend of Mr Morley’s, John Charlton, who also played golf with him, paid an emotional tribute yesterday saying he was “one of the nicest men you could hope to meet”.

At first the Portuguese National Republican Guard did not suspect robbery because he still was wearing gold jewellery when he was found. But a day later his empty wallet was found.

David and his wife were members of the Arcot Hall Golf Club, near Cramlington, Northumberland. He also used to play at Tyneside Golf Club near his home.