A 78-year-old Bradford man who collapsed and died minutes after a row with a gang of youths was today called "a saint".

Widower Abraham Cookson collapsed at his friend Harriet Hardaker's home last night.

Mr Cookson, of Stonegate Road, Eccleshill, looked after 90-year-old Mrs Hardaker, who is deaf.

Her son Gordon, 53, said: "He was a true Good Samaritan, a real saint.

"Abraham used to visit two or three times a day. He used to do everything for her. I dread to think what this will do to my mother."

Mr Hardaker said a gang of youths were making a nuisance outside his mother's home in Cavendish Court, Park Lane, Eccleshill, last night.

Mr Cookson went out to confront the gang. When he returned he collapsed and died.

Detectives today launched an investigation into the incident, which took place between 8pm and 8.30pm. Police cordoned off the area and one officer was guarding the flats this morning.

A Home Office pathologist was due to carry out a post mortem examination today in a bid to determine the cause of the man's death.

Mr Hardaker said: "They have been really close friends. When Abraham's wife died, my mother helped him get over it.

"He was a superb man. I wanted him to do less because he had been in hospital with heart problems, but he just wanted to help my mother."

A 76-year-old neighbour, who asked not to be named, said: "We have had some problems lately with gangs of youngsters."

Detective Superintendent Stuart Hyde, who is leading the inquiry, said: "It appears the man was involved in an altercation with youngsters. If anyone saw the incident or was involved in any disputes in the area last night then we would ask them to get in touch."

Ring Eccleshill CID on Bradford 376082.

Two 15-year-old youths were today being questioned by detectives in relation to a violent disorder incident.

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