Bail extended for man arrested over betting shop row (From The Northern Echo)

Bail extended for man arrested over betting shop row

6:46pm Tuesday 17th June 2008 in

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BAIL has been extended for a man arrested following a confrontation with a betting shop manager, who collapsed and later died in hospital.

Jeff Hilland failed to recover consciousness and died four days after the incident at Pagebet's branch, in Pelton, near Chester-le-Street, earlier this month.

Mr Hilland, of South Moor, Stanley, fell unconscious during an argument over the late placing of a bet on a greyhound race at the shop on the evening of June 2.

The 52-year-old father of three grown up children died in Durham's University Hospital of North Durham, on June 6.

A 36-year-old local man was arrested at the Front Street premises on suspicion of wounding with intent.

He was granted police bail pending investigations into the incident, including a decision on whether a more serious charge may be brought.

But Durham Police said tonight that the man's bail has now been extended for a further two months, to allow for further inquiries.

Mr Hilland, a horse racing fan, had been in the betting industry for 25 years and was previously manager at Pagebet's premises in Rowlands Gill, near Gateshead, having also worked for another firm in Stanley.

Pagebet director Austin Carney described Mr Hilland as: "A smashing bloke and very popular with friends, colleagues and customers alike.

"He was a very decent guy."

The Pelton shop remained closed the day after the incident, and reopened on June 4.