Savage attack on Colne dad two nights in a row

A popular Colne character has been the victim of a savage beating, leaving his many friends and family in shock.
Andrew Titley with his assault injuriesAndrew Titley with his assault injuries
Andrew Titley with his assault injuries

Former musician Andrew Titley, affectionately known as “Chig”, was mugged and assaulted on two consecutive nights while making his way home from the pub.

His cowardly attackers even stole the 50-year-old’s heart monitor during the first robbery, which took place in Patten Street around 2am on Saturday, while he made his way home from the Lord Rodney pub.

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Mr Titley, well-known in Colne for his work at the long-running Blues Festival, was left with serious injuries including cracked teeth and ribs as a result of the second attack.

His daughter, Caley Titley, who found him at home the following morning, said her daughters were “traumatised” after seeing his injuries.

She said: “My dad is a gentle and vulnerable man. In the last 10 years he has suffered five heart attacks and two strokes.

“I called to see him on Sunday morning with my two daughters not knowing he’d been attacked again.

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“When my girls saw him they were hysterical. It has left them traumatised. They thought he was dead because his injuries looked so bad.”

Miss Titley said the robberies had provoked strong feelings and anger in Colne where her dad has lived all his life.

Born and brought up in Colne, Mr Titley worked as a labourer before ill health forced his retirement.

He was also a guitarist in local band Walter Mitty’s Head.

Miss Titley added: “Dad is such a friendly person. He always stops to talk to people in the street and wouldn’t harm a fly.

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“I have been inundated with social media messages since the attacks wishing him well. I really hope the police catch whoever is responsible because there is so much anger in the town now.”

Police confirmed that inquiries are still ongoing and urged anyone with information to contact them on 101 or Crimestoppers, confidentially, on 0800 555 111.

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