Man jailed for killing much-loved grandad in Bridgwater atter row over £20

A loving grandad from Bridgwater died after being punched in a row over £20, a court heard. And his killer has been jailed for 10 years.

Trouble brewed between Simon Edney, 59, and neighbour Thomas Weber at their home in La Ciotat House, Bristol Crown Court heard. After exchanging messages Mr Edney – who had health issues including a brain injury – called on Weber asking for the money Weber owed him, and Weber punched him to the floor.

Later Weber saw him in a corridor and punched him again “with the force of a train”, witnesses said. Initially Weber, 32, pleaded guilty to grievous bodily harm. Tragically, six weeks after he was assaulted Mr Edney died as a result of injuries sustained.

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As a result Weber pleaded guilty to manslaughter. Today (June 14, 2023) The Honourable Mr Justice Saini jailed him for 10 years. The judge told Weber: “I’ve heard moving victim impact statements from Mr Edney’s family. They describe him as a loving, kind father and brother.”

William Hunter, prosecuting, described Mr Edney as an alcoholic, but a good neighbour, who “would not say boo to a goose”. Mr Hunter said Weber was a tall man with a big build who some neighbours felt was intimidating.

The court heard in June last year the pair exchanged messages before Mr Edney called on Weber and asked for £20 owed. Weber was heard to reply: “You’re not having your £20” before pushing him back and punching him to the floor.

Later Weber punched Mr Edney a second time, knocking him out cold with a formidable blow deacribed by a witness as “with the force of a train”, the court heard. Mr Edney eventually returned to his flat, an ambulance was called, but sadly his condition deteriorated and he died six weeks later.

When Weber was arrested he made false accusations to police. He falsely claimed he had acted in self-defence as Mr Edney had a knife, the court heard.

After Mr Edney passed away his family paid tribute to him, saying: “Simon was a loving and caring son, brother, father, grandad and friend to many.

“We will always remember his ability to lighten and find humour in any situation. He always found time to help anyone who asked for help, and he accepted everyone regardless of their quirks and differences.

“Wherever you are now Simon, we hope you keep rocking, smiling and telling those terrible dad jokes. We all love you and always will.”

Patrick Mason, defending, said his client had a troubled background but his ownly previous offences for violence involved a robbery and he was working to rehabilitate in jail. Mr Mason told the court: “He says ‘I would like to apologise to Simon’s family for the pain I’ve caused them.

“‘They will be hugely affected by the loss of Simon. I’m sorry to each and every one of them.”

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