Peter John Marston, 24, of Stafford, and Danny Keeble, 26, of no fixed abode, were both sentenced to 15 years in prison after being found guilty of the manslaughter of Charles Green at the beginning of last month.

As well as manslaughter, Peter John Marston was also found guilty of a charge of burglary. Keeble had already admitted a charge of burglary.

Charles Green, died on 2 June last year, a month after he was assaulted during a break-in at his home in Ambleside Road on 2 May.

During the trial the court heard horrifying details of how Mr Green was left battered and bloodied with serious head, hip and arm injuries from which he never recovered.

Superintendent Tozer said: “It was a brutal and cowardly assault on an elderly and vulnerable man living alone in his own home. Mr Green was shown no mercy. Those responsible were ruthless in their desperation to steal money and valuables.”

“The sentences are a clear indication that the courts will come down hard on burglars and others who use violence against innocent people. Instances like this are sickening and will be condemned by all decent-minded people.

“People in Shropshire, and indeed elsewhere in the country, have a right to feel and to be safe in their homes. Cases such as this are fortunately relatively rare and we will do everything in our power to bring to justice those who resort to violence during criminal activity.

“Such offences, especially when the elderly and most vulnerable are preyed upon, will continue to be given the utmost priority,” Superintendent Tozer added.

Keeble and Marston had denied manslaughter but were found guilty by the jury. Police technology played a significant role with video evidence from Mr Green recorded soon after the attack being shown to the court.

Despite his injuries, he was able to tell police about his ordeal and the offenders, evidence filmed and recorded by robocam by the first officers to arrive at the scene. His evidence proved crucial in bringing the case to court.

Detective Inspector Mick Homden, who led the police investigation, said: “What Keeble and Marston did to Mr Green shocked and outraged the local community; even police officers on the case were appalled by the brutality inflicted.

“I’d like to thank members of the public who came forward as witnesses. Their assistance was invaluable.”

He also praised members of Mr Green’s family, saying they had remained “resolute and dignified” while attempting to come to terms with their loss. “I know Charles Green was a loving family man who in turn was loved and respected by those close to him. I can only hope the conclusion of the court case will bring them a degree of closure allowing them to move on with their lives.”