Grandson of world-renowned Jaguar restorer is charged with savage assault on the 82-year-old six days earlier than he died from his accidents

The grandson of a ‘world-renowned’ expert in the restoration of Jaguars has been charged with a savage attack which left him fatally injured, it can be revealed.

Jakob Walpole, 32, is accused of assaulting his grandfather John Brown, 82, at his home in Bulkington, Warwickshire, on November 23. He died from his injuries six days later.

Mr Brown was described by his family as ‘a world-renowned figure in the Jaguar restoration industry’ who had spent decades restoring classic cars in his garage, Leaping Cats.

MailOnline can now reveal that Walpole is Mr Brown’s grandson, who had once worked with him restoring cars at the garage on School Road in Bulkington.

He was arrested within hours of the attack on suspicion of the assault, as well as a separate attack in a working men’s club that same night.

Police charged him with inflicting grievous bodily harm on Mr Brown before he passed away. No charges have yet been brought over his death.

He is due to appear for a plea hearing at Warwick Crown Court on December 23.

Mr Brown, who is survived by his wife, Dot, was described ‘loving husband, father, and grandfather, but also a true gentleman, a pillar of the community, and a world-renowned figure in the Jaguar restoration industry’.

Jakob Walpole (pictured) is accused of assaulting his grandfather John Brown, 82, at his home in Bulkington, Warwickshire, on November 23

Mr Brown was described by his family as ‘a world-renowned figure in the Jaguar restoration industry’ who had spent decades restoring classic cars in his garage, Leaping Cats

He was said to have built and restored ‘some of the most iconic Jaguars, including the legendary XK series (pictured)’

Paying tribute to him on Tuesday, his family said in a statement that he was ‘a true craftsman, renowned worldwide for his expertise and passion for his work’.

He was said to have built and restored ‘some of the most iconic Jaguars, including the legendary XK series’.

‘His reputation in this industry was unmatched—John’s attention to detail, his skill, and his dedication to excellence earned him respect and admiration across the globe,’ the statement said.

‘He took great pride in his work, and the cars he helped create became a lasting legacy, much like the lasting impact he had on those around him.’

Warwickshire Police said officers were first called to reports of an assault in a house on St James’ Garden on the evening of November 23, which is when Mr Brown was discovered.

The second incident happened at Bulkington Working Men’s Club and occurred later that evening. Walpole is alleged to have assaulted a customer and a member of staff at the club.

He appeared at Coventry Magistrates Court on November 25 charged with grievous bodily harm, actual bodily harm, common assault, possession of an offensive weapon and breach of a restraining order.

Mr Brown’s family remembered his as a devout family man, whose love and dedication was ‘unwavering’.

Walpole is alleged to have assaulted a customer and a member of staff at the club

The tribute continued: ‘He was a wonderful husband, always supportive and caring to his wife, Dot.

‘As a father, he guided his children with wisdom and affection, and as a grandfather, he was the heart of the family, creating memories filled with warmth, laughter, and love.

‘His family will forever treasure the example he set and the deep, unconditional love he gave.’