A VETERANS charity has paid tribute to former branch chairman Malcolm Cox, whose sudden death has sparked a murder probe in Andover.

The Royal British Legion described the 84-year-old, who died in hospital from his injuries on Wednesday, November 16, as a “stalwart member”.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “We are very sad to learn of the passing of Malcolm who we came to respect and admire over more than 20 years of service to The Royal British Legion.

“Malcolm was a stalwart member of both Andover and Tidworth branches of The Royal British Legion and held the posts of branch secretary and branch chairman in his time.

“He will be sadly missed,” added the spokesperson.

Mr Cox, pictured right, was found with a laceration to the back of his head at a property in Bell Road in the town on Tuesday, November 15.

The pensioner, also of Bell Road, was taken to North Hampshire Hospital in Basingstoke, where he died the following morning.

Police launched an investigation following his death and arrested a 38-year-old woman and a 71-year-old man on suspicion of murder.

Both have been bailed until March 7, 2017.

The killing sparked shock on the estate, with neighbours describing a heavy police presence for days.

Long-time friend Tracey Cooke, 48, told the Advertiser last week: “I just can’t believe what has happened to him.

“I’m completely shocked.

“He was the life and soul of the party and had a heart of gold.”

Neighbour Tracie Annetts, 50, said of Mr Cox: “He was a very special person.”