A man has been sentenced for manslaughter following a grievous assault in Eastbourne.

Cameron Grocutt assaulted a 66-year-old man in Canute Close.

The 66-year-old man who was initially taken to hospital, but tragically was later pronounced deceased.

Police launched an investigation, and through witness testimony and CCTV were able to trace a red Mini in the area.

Grocutt, 24, of no fixed address, was linked to this vehicle and it was established he was at the scene.

He initially admitted causing grievous bodily harm without intent, but was further summonsed with a charge of manslaughter following the victim’s death.

At Lewes Crown Court on 7 May he appeared for sentencing after admitting the manslaughter charge. He also admitted driving while disqualified was sentenced to four years and four months in prison.

The court was told how the incident happened at about 6pm on 26 October last year.

A witnessed described how the victim was approached by Grocutt and was struck to the head, then fell backwards.

He suffered fatal injuries and died from his injuries in hospital on 12 November.

Speaking after the case, Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector James Meanwell from the Sussex Major Crime Team said: “Grocutt carried out a grievous and unprovoked assault on an elderly man who was not known to him in Eastbourne.

“This was an isolated incident that did not pose a wider threat to the community.

“We took the investigation extremely seriously and we were determined to find answers for the victim’s family.

“Grocutt was arrested following a thorough investigation, and the Attorney General’s Office authorised the further summons for the charge of manslaughter, which he admitted.

“I would like to thank the witnesses and community for coming forward to report information to us to ensure Grocutt was brought to justice. I am pleased he is now serving a custodial sentence.”