David Askew was found dead outside his home in Hattersley, Greater Manchester, by police who had been sent to the address.

The 64-year-old's family had called 999 because a group of youths were causing an "annoyance", but by the time officers arrived they had fled.

Last night police arrested an 18-year-old man in connection with the death.

Mr Askew, who had learning difficulties, was well known in the area because of the problems he had with local yobs.

On Wednesday evening he became involved in a confrontation with a gang and after walking out into his back garden, he collapsed.

Police said he did not suffered any injuries, but may have died of a heart attack or stroke.

A postmortem on Mr Askew's body has proved inconclusive and further tests will be carried out to establish the exact cause of death.

Angry neighbours criticised authorities for failing to stop the "hoodies" from harassing Mr Askew and his family, which includes his brother Brian and elderly mother Rose.

"This has been going on for about 10 years," said Avona Davies, a 49-year-old shop worker.

"David had learning difficulties and I think that is why they tormented him because he would scream out of the window at them.

"We have complained to the police and council and they put cameras in their back garden about three years ago.

"They tormented David for money and cigarettes. They harassed him every night without fail."

But Mr Askew's wheelchair-bound mother described the police help her family have received as "superb".

She added: "They have done as much as anyone could do."

Chief Superintendent Zoe Hamilton also defended the force's efforts on behalf of the family.

She said her team had "been in daily contact" with them to "address the problems they have been having".