‘Covid hero’ Robert Hiscoe killed in ‘senseless’ pub attack outside Butterbowl pub in Leeds
Robert Hiscoe, who raised thousands of pounds for the NHS during the Covid-19 pandemic, died following a violent attack outside a pub.
A violent thug who killed a ‘Covid hero’ in a ‘senseless’ pub attack has been jailed. Nathaniel Philip, 36, left Robert Hiscoe, 37, with an un-survivable brain injury after a sickening incident outside the Butterbowl pub in Leeds, West Yorkshire.
Philip knocked Robert to the ground before repeatedly punching him in the head as he lay on the floor on May 5 this year. Given emergency treatment by ambulance staff on the scene, Robert was then rushed to hospital in a critical condition where he was later, tragically, pronounced dead.
Philip, of no fixed address, was arrested later the same day on suspicion of assault and was subsequently charged with murder. He denied the charge but pleaded guilty to unlawful killing when he appeared at Leeds Crown Court on September 27, a plea which was accepted by prosecutors.
On Monday (October 28), Philip was jailed for five years and six months for Robert’s manslaughter.
Detective Superintendent Marc Bowes said: “Robert’s death in such utterly senseless circumstances has left his family absolutely devastated. We recognise that no sentence can ever ease the pain they are continuing to feel without him in their lives.
“It is a real tragedy that shows very clearly the awful consequences that can come about when people resort to the level of violence that Philip used against him while he was defenceless on the ground. Although Philip will now spend time in prison, he will have the rest of his life to reflect on the lasting trauma and loss that his momentary actions have caused to Robert’s family.”
Robert, a painter and decorator by trade, was described by his local cricket club as a “very popular character" and a "local hero". They said he raised thousands of pounds during the Covid pandemic for the NHS through singing online, and that he was a frequent performer at local venues.
In an online tribute, New Farnley Cricket Club said: "Rob sang many times at the club, brightening up parties and celebrations with his wonderful voice making the events special and memorable. He also brightened up many living and dining rooms, hall stairs and landings, bedrooms and kitchens with his wonderful decorating skills."
Robert's wife, Christina, also uploaded a photo of the couple together on social media following his death, prompting an outpouring of tributes. One well-wisher wrote: "I'm so so sorry Christina. Sending you and the girls lots of love. Cant get you out of my head, just devastating. Rob was such an amazing guy who touched the lives of so many."
Another added: "My heart breaks for you Christina. What a lovely man he was. I have no words."