A MAN has pleaded guilty to an “horrendous attack” on a 91-year-old decorated Second World War naval hero in his own home. Trevor Darvill, 36, of New Road in Tiptree, appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court yesterday and admitted setting upon 91-year-old Henry Bentley in September last year.

A MAN has pleaded guilty to an “horrendous attack” on a 91-year-old decorated Second World War naval hero in his own home.

Trevor Darvill, 36, of New Road in Tiptree, appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court yesterday and admitted setting upon 91-year-old Henry Bentley in September last year.

Mr Bentley, also of New Road, was left with two broken fingers, a broken rib, cuts to his arm and a badly bruised cheekbone and was rushed to Colchester General Hospital.

The attack on the amiable pensioner, who was often seen about Tiptree with his war medals adorning his suit, left the community in shock.

Darvill, who has been in custody since he was charged, pleaded guilty to wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm to Mr Bentley on September 8.

He also admitted a second charge of wounding with intent on a woman, Laura Haines at the house on the same day.

Exact details of events at Mr Bentley's house did not emerge at court yesterday but David Holborn, prosecuting, said the attack had been “horrendous”.

Police were called to Mr Bentley's home at about 10pm after neighbours heard a disturbance from the bungalow.

After the attack, residents in Tiptree spoke fondly of Mr Bentley who was often seen in the Church Road parade.

Paul Tyler, who runs Don Tyler and Son Opticians, said: “He is a lovely old man, so proud and friendly, totally harmless.

“I think he was a bit of a hero in his time. So many people know each other around here and when this sort of thing happens it knocks you back a bit.”

Judge Christopher Ball, QC, adjourned the case until November for a pre-sentence report to be prepared.